Kraemer scores twice as Canada tops USA at U18 women's worlds

ÖSTERSUND, Sweden — Caitlin Kraemer scored twice as Canada capped the preliminary round of the women's world under-18 hockey championship with a 3-1 win over the United States on Wednesday.

Emmalee Pais had a goal and an assist for Canada, which finished atop Group A at 3-0.

Charlotte Pieckenhagen contributed two assists.

“It was cool to see everyone bring it tonight," said Canada assistant coach Tara Watchorn. They focused on the habits, what we do well and were able to put together one shift after another. It was fun to watch.

We always get excited to play the U.S. (Our team) was ready to go from the moment they woke up this morning, hoping to get to another level."

Goaltender Hannah Clark needed to make just 10 saves for the win.

Joy Dunne scored for the U.S. which ranked second in Group A at 2-1, followed by Sweden (1-2) and Finland (0-3).

The U.S. didn't register a shot on goal in the third period until Cassandra Hall's unsuccessful penalty shot at 7:18.

"I was able to stay square to the puck and not bite on anything (during the penalty shot)," Clark said.

Annelies Bergmann made 32 saves in the U.S. net.

Both countries had already secured byes to Saturday's semifinals heading into the game.

Kraemer from Kitchener, Ont., leads Canada in scoring in the tournament with six goals and an assist in three games.

In other results Wednesday, Sweden thumped Finland 6-1.

In Pool B, Czechia edged Slovakia 4-3 and Switzerland beat Japan 2-1.

Finland faces Group B winner Czechia and Sweden takes on Slovakia in Thursday's quarterfinals.

Switzerland and Japan, which finished third and fourth respectively in Group B, will meet in a relegation series.

The final is Sunday.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 11, 2023.