Ismael scores three goals as Canada defeats Sweden at U18 women's hockey worlds

Sofia Ismael scored three goals as Canada defeated Sweden 9-2 at the U18 women's world championship in Membertou, Nova Scotia; Canada finished first in Group A and will face Finland in Thursday's quarterfinals.

Canada beat Sweden 9-2 on Tuesday at the world under-18 women's hockey championship in Membertou, Nova Scotia. Sofia Ismael scored three goals in the game. Several teammates also scored and the Canadian goaltender made multiple saves. Canada entered the knockout stage as the Group A leader and is the defending U18 women's champion. Match details: - Final score: Canada 9, Sweden 2, played in Membertou, Nova Scotia. - Scoring: Sofia Ismael recorded three goals; Rosalie Tremblay scored twice; Rachel Piggott, Kate Viel, Hayley McDonald and Alida Korte also scored for Canada. - Goaltenders: Canadian goalie Lea-Rose Charrois made nine saves; Sweden used Thea Holmberg (allowed seven goals on 25 shots) and Meja Engelin (11 saves on 13 shots in relief). - Standings: Canada finished atop Group A with nine points from three regulation wins; Sweden finished second in the group with six points. - Next games: Canada will face Finland in the quarterfinals on Thursday; Sweden will play Slovakia next. Summary: Canada produced a decisive preliminary-round win and secured first place in Group A, continuing a strong run at the tournament; the team is the defending U18 women's champion and has won three of the last four events. Both Canada and Sweden advance to quarterfinal opponents this week, with Canada's next match scheduled against Finland and Sweden set to face Slovakia.