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Poulin to Play: Canada Gets Boost Against US

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. poulin-to-play-canada-gets-boost-against-us.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, February 10th 2026 at 9:53 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: CANADA, UNITED STATES

Milan, Italy - February 10th, 2026 - Captain Marie-Philip Poulin will indeed suit up for Canada's highly anticipated Olympic hockey showdown against the United States today, providing a massive boost to the team and electrifying fans worldwide. The news, confirmed just hours before puck drop, comes after Poulin was listed as a game-time decision following a concerning injury sustained in Canada's opening match against Switzerland.

The specter of Poulin's absence loomed large over the Canadian camp. She absorbed a significant hit during the Switzerland game and left the ice, immediately raising fears of a serious upper-body injury. While details of the injury remain guarded - a common practice during Olympic competition - the concern was palpable. Poulin's leadership and skill are intrinsically linked to Canada's Olympic ambitions.

Poulin isn't just a player; she's a legend. At 32, this is potentially her final Olympic Games, and she's aiming to add to an already stellar career. She has become synonymous with Canadian women's hockey excellence. To date, she is the all-time leading scorer in Olympic women's hockey, a testament to her consistent performance on the biggest stage. Her ability to deliver in clutch moments is unparalleled, and she's often the go-to player when the game is on the line. Her two gold medals (2010, 2014) and one silver (2018, lost to the US) speak volumes about her impact.

The Canada-US rivalry in women's hockey is arguably the most compelling narrative of the Winter Olympics. The two nations have consistently battled for supremacy, and the intensity of their matchups is legendary. The 2026 contest holds added weight as a direct rematch of the heartbreaking 2022 Beijing gold medal game, where the Americans snatched victory in overtime. The Canadian team has spent the last four years analyzing that defeat, seeking to learn from their mistakes and build a team capable of reclaiming the title.

Beyond Poulin's on-ice prowess, her captaincy provides invaluable stability and motivation. Teammates consistently speak of her calming presence in the locker room and her ability to lift spirits, even in the face of adversity. Her dedication to the game, combined with her approachable personality, has made her a role model for aspiring female hockey players around the globe.

The Canadian team, while boasting a roster of exceptionally talented players, clearly revolves around Poulin. Players like Sarah Nurse, Natalie Spooner, and Brianne Jenner are all critical components of Canada's offensive attack, but Poulin's ability to create scoring opportunities and finish plays is unmatched. The coaching staff will likely manage her ice time carefully, mindful of her recent injury, but her presence will undoubtedly inspire the entire team.

Meanwhile, the United States squad is equally formidable. Led by veteran players like Hilary Knight and Amanda Pelkey, the Americans are determined to defend their Olympic title. They've built a program consistently at the forefront of women's hockey, focusing on skill development and tactical innovation. The Americans have demonstrated an ability to adapt and overcome challenges, making them a dangerous opponent for any team.

The stakes are incredibly high today. A win for Canada would not only put them in a strong position to advance to the medal round but would also send a powerful message to the rest of the tournament. For the United States, a victory would solidify their status as the dominant force in women's hockey and bring them one step closer to repeating as Olympic champions.

Fans can tune in to [link to full TV schedule] to watch all the action from the 2026 Winter Olympics, and follow the latest medal updates on the live medal table [link to medal count]. Team Canada's complete roster, schedule, and results can be found here [link to Team Canada page]. But all eyes will be on Marie-Philip Poulin as she leads her team into battle, hoping to write another chapter in her legendary Olympic story.