In the group stage, USA won 3–0, but just like now in the semifinal, it was goalless after the first period.
When the Americans got a chance in a numerical superiority situation in the second period, it immediately hit the back of the net behind the Swedish goalkeeper Maja Helge. USA's team captain Anabella Fanale then pushed the puck in after Helge had left a rebound.
When it was Sweden's turn to play powerplay, they were just as effective. After 7.27, Lovisa Engström sent in the equalizing puck, which was only USA's second conceded goal in the tournament.
Barely seven minutes later, Fanale stepped forward again for USA when she skated past tired Swedish players and hung the leading puck in the net.
It's clear that we're a bit tired, but we have more to give. It's just a matter of continuing now in the third, said Lovisa Engström to SVT.
In the World Championship on home soil in Östersund 2023, the Junior Crowns took a surprising silver medal (0–10 loss to Canada in the final) after beating USA in the semifinal with 2–1.
There was no blue and yellow repeat in Vanda. USA dominated the third period, but no more goals came and the Americans booked their final ticket via 2–1.
Sweden will play the bronze match on Sunday. The Czech Republic, who gave Canada a match in the semifinal, awaits.
Canada won in the end with 4–2 and will play for gold in the final against USA.
