In a thrilling contest that reshaped the top of the women's collegiate hockey landscape, the Ohio State Buckeyes delivered a decisive performance against the Wisconsin Badgers. This pivotal matchup, which saw two of the nation's premier teams vie for conference supremacy, concluded with a notable upset, shifting the balance of power in the WCHA. The outcome has set the stage for an intense conclusion to the season, with both teams demonstrating their fighting spirit despite key absences.
Buckeyes Triumph Over Badgers in Madison Showdown
On a chilly Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the vibrant La Bahn Arena in Madison, the second-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes orchestrated a commanding 4-1 victory over the top-ranked Wisconsin Badgers. This crucial win propelled the Buckeyes, now boasting a 26-3 overall record and 20-3 in the WCHA, into the coveted first-place position, nudging ahead of Wisconsin (24-3-2 overall, 18-3-2 WCHA) by a single point, 58-57. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation, as fans witnessed a fierce battle for league dominance. Both teams faced the challenge of competing without several star players, who were proudly representing their respective nations at the Olympics. Wisconsin was notably without Caroline Harvey, Kirsten Simms, Laila Edwards, and Ava McNaughton, who were playing for Team USA, and Adela Sapovalivova, representing Czechia. Ohio State also felt the absence of its leading scorer, Joy Dunne, among four Olympic-bound players.
The Buckeyes wasted no time establishing their presence. Senior Sloane Matthews notched a power-play goal just 31 seconds before the first intermission, followed by sophomore Jordyn Petrie's unassisted strike at the 5:40 mark of the second period. These early goals proved to be all Ohio State needed. Wisconsin's lone response came from junior Ava Murphy, who managed to score with just three minutes remaining, utilizing an extra attacker in a desperate bid to narrow the deficit. The game was also marked by a significant number of penalties, with Ohio State incurring four and Wisconsin five, including two consecutive infractions in the first period. Despite being outshot 17-7 in the opening frame, the Badgers flipped the script in the second, outshooting the Buckeyes, but they were unable to penetrate Ohio State's robust defense, which has maintained an impressive average of 1.68 goals allowed per game. Badgers coach Mark Johnson underscored the need for a heightened effort from his team, noting the Buckeyes' consistent display of extra drive throughout the 60 minutes. Senior Lacey Eden, who led Wisconsin with eight shots on goal, reflected on the unpredictable nature of hockey and the necessity for her team to capitalize on future opportunities. Looking ahead to the Sunday rematch, the Badgers are determined to regain their footing and reclaim the top spot, with subsequent series scheduled against Minnesota State and St. Cloud State.
This encounter serves as a powerful reminder of the relentless competitive spirit in collegiate sports. The ability of teams to adapt and perform under pressure, even in the absence of key players, speaks volumes about their depth and resilience. For the Badgers, this loss is a call to action, emphasizing the importance of a strong start and disciplined play. For the Buckeyes, it’s a testament to their strategic prowess and unwavering determination. Ultimately, this game was not just a score but a narrative of shifting momentum, strategic adjustments, and the sheer will to win, offering valuable lessons for athletes and enthusiasts alike about perseverance and the pursuit of excellence.