Release from 09.11.2026

Austria stood no chance despite scoring against the USA

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Austria’s women’s national team lost 1–11 to Olympic champions and defending title holders the USA at the World Cup in Esbjerg. Annika Fazokas scored the consolation goal following an assist from Lena Dauböck of the KSV Highlanders; it was the first goal the US women had conceded at this World Championship. On Tuesday, they face Switzerland in their last chance to reach the quarter-finals.

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The USA had previously beaten Switzerland and Germany without conceding a goal and gave Austria little breathing space either. The score was 0–4 after the first period and 0–8 after 40 minutes. Caroline Harvey scored a hat-trick, whilst record goalscorer Hilary Knight netted twice. Austria managed five shots on goal, whilst the USA had 66. In the 55th minute, the Austrians were finally rewarded for their efforts: following some good forechecking, Dauböck played the puck to Fazokas, who slotted it into the near corner without hesitation. Fazokas was voted Austria’s best player.

“Annika’s goal in the final period was a special moment for the team; we’re the first to have scored against them,” said head coach Alexander Bröms. “That gives us confidence for tomorrow.”

Nine league players in the squad
Bröms made changes to the line-up compared to the match against Germany. In goal, Magdalena Luggin made her debut at a senior World Championship and saved 55 shots - Selma Luggin was backup goalie. Charlotte Wittich of the Sabres made her first appearance at this World Championship, whilst Hanna Obermayr returned to the forward line. Also in the line-up were Antonia Matzka, Artemis Tekin and Emma Mörtl from the Sabres, and Lisa Schröfl and Dauböck from the KSV Highlanders. Tamara Grascher of the Graz99ers Huskies had a good chance in the 54th minute after winning the puck, but was denied by Gwyneth Philips.

Tuesday’s match against Switzerland to decide a place in the quarter-finals
In their final group match, Austria face Switzerland on Tuesday at 7.00 pm, live on ORF SPORT +. The Swiss have two points following an overtime victory against the Czech Republic, whilst Austria are still without a point. Only a win after 60 minutes will keep their hopes of reaching the quarter-finals alive, with the top four teams from the five-team group progressing. The team finishing bottom of the group will play in Herning on 13 November to avoid relegation.

2026 IIHF Women’s World Championship | Group A
Mon, 9 Nov 2026, Esbjerg
Austria – USA 1–11 (0–4, 0–4, 1–3)

Tue, 10 Nov 2026
7.00 pm | Switzerland v Austria