In a thrilling matchup at the Milano Santagiulia IHO, Italy triumphed over France with a decisive 4-1 victory in their Group B clash at the 2026 Olympic Women’s Hockey tournament. This win marked a significant moment for the host nation, delighting local fans and showcasing Italy’s hockey prowess.
Match Overview
Although France took an early lead with a goal from Gabrielle de Serres, Italy quickly responded. Just one minute later, Kayla Tutino leveled the score, assisted by captain Nadia Mattivi. From that point on, Italy dominated the game.
Key Moments
- France’s Early Lead: Gabrielle de Serres scored first for France.
- Italy’s Equalizer: Kayla Tutino netted the equalizer shortly after.
- Game-Winning Goal: Rebecca Roccella scored the go-ahead goal in the second period.
- Final Goals: Matilde Fantin and Kristin Della Rovere added goals in the third, sealing the win.
Statistics Highlights
Italy showcased excellent teamwork, outshooting France with a total of 46 shots to 15. Both teams failed to convert on their power play attempts, going 0-for-1.
Player Performances
Several players stood out during the match:
- Kristin Della Rovere (F): Made a significant impact, providing a key assist and scoring a stunning goal.
- Nadia Mattivi (D): The captain played a crucial role, contributing to both offense and defense with a +1 rating.
- Rebecca Roccella (F): Roccella’s speed and ice awareness made her a constant threat and she scored Italy’s pivotal second goal.
- Alice Philbert (G, France): Despite the loss, Philbert was outstanding, making 42 saves to keep her team in the game.
Upcoming Matches
Looking ahead, France is set to face Japan in their next game, while Italy prepares for a challenging matchup against Sweden. Both teams will need to adjust quickly to stay competitive in the tournament.
Conclusion
Italy’s performance against France not only highlighted their skill and determination but also set the tone for the rest of the tournament. The victory is a testament to the growth of women’s hockey in Italy as they aim for Olympic glory.
