Switzerland Secures Olympic Women's Hockey Bronze with Overtime Victory Against Sweden

Switzerland Claims Second Olympic Bronze in Thrilling Overtime Finish

Milan, Italy – Switzerland's women's national ice hockey team has clinched its second Olympic bronze medal, triumphing over Sweden with a 2-1 overtime victory at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games. The decisive goal came from veteran forward Alina Muller, who scored 9:09 into the extra period on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at the Santagiulia Arena.

The hard-fought contest saw both teams battling intensely for a spot on the podium. This victory marks a significant achievement for the Swiss program, securing their first Olympic medal since the 2014 Sochi Games, where they also won bronze.

Muller's Repeat Heroics

Alina Muller, now 27 years old, once again proved to be the hero for Switzerland. Her overtime winner was her second Olympic medal-clinching goal, having previously scored the game-winner in the 2014 Sochi Games bronze medal match, also against Sweden, when she was just 15 years old. Muller, who plays for the Boston Fleet in the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL), executed a slick give-and-go with teammate Ivana Wey before roofing the puck for the winning shot.

Reflecting on the moment, Muller stated, 'It means everything. This team, the staff, everybody fought so hard for this moment.' She also acknowledged the 'full-circle moment' of her second bronze-clinching goal against the same opponent.

Game Overview and Key Moments

The bronze medal game was a tightly contested affair. Sweden's Mira Jungaker opened the scoring in the second period. However, Switzerland quickly responded, with Sinja Leemann netting the equalizer just four minutes later from a pass by Alina Marti. Swedish goaltender Ebba Svensson Traff made 23 saves, including stopping a penalty shot attempt by Switzerland's Ivana Wey in the second period.

Swiss goaltender Andrea Braendli was a formidable presence in net, stopping 32 of Sweden's 33 shots, including 13 crucial saves in the third period. Despite being outshot 32-25 by Sweden, the Swiss defense held firm, forcing the game into overtime. The Swiss had a power play opportunity late in the third period but were unable to convert, leading to a tense conclusion to regulation time.

A Historic Achievement

This bronze medal marks Switzerland's second in Olympic women's ice hockey history, solidifying their position among the top nations in the sport. The team's resilience and determination were evident throughout the tournament, culminating in this memorable victory. After the win, Muller was seen tying the jersey of injured teammate Noemi Ryhner around her, a gesture acknowledging Ryhner's absence from the Games due to injury.