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Slovakia’s women’s national ice hockey team delivered a commanding performance against Norway on April 17, 2026, securing a decisive 5-0 victory in the 2026 IIHF Women’s World Championship Division I Group A tournament. The victory, which came on the third day of competition in Budapest, Hungary, propelled Slovakia to the top of the standings and placed their promotion fate firmly in their own hands as they aim for a return to the elite Top Division after an eight-year absence.
From the opening faceoff, Slovakia asserted dominance, with forward Nela Lopušanová leading the charge. The 18-year-old winger, who plays for the Bishop Kearney Selects under-19 AAA team in the United States, continued her impressive tournament run by scoring two goals and adding an assist in the victory over Norway. Her performance exemplified the team’s cohesive effort, as Slovakia outshot Norway 42-18 and maintained relentless pressure throughout the contest.
Lopušanová’s contributions were part of a broader offensive surge that saw Slovakia score five unanswered goals. The Slovaks struck first when Lopušanová capitalized on a turnover in the Norwegian zone at the 8:22 mark of the first period, firing a wrist shot past the glove of Norwegian goaltender Eira Mork. She doubled her tally midway through the second period, redirecting a point shot from defender Lucia Kostová into the net at 12:17. Assist credit also went to Lopušanová on the third Slovak goal, scored by forward Nikola Fiedlerová at 6:03 of the third period.
The victory marked Slovakia’s second consecutive win in the tournament, following a 2-0 shutout victory over Hungary on April 15. After two games, Slovakia sits atop the Group A standings with four points, ahead of Norway (two points) and Hungary (zero points). Denmark, which lost its opening game to Norway 3-1, remains winless after falling to Hungary 2-1 on April 16.
With the win over Norway, Slovakia controls its own destiny in the race for promotion to the Top Division. The team needs only to win its remaining two games—against Denmark on April 19 and Hungary on April 21—to secure first place in the group and earn automatic promotion. A loss in either game would open the door for Norway, which holds a tiebreaker advantage over Slovakia based on their head-to-head result, to potentially leapfrog them in the standings.
Lopušanová’s performance against Norway continued a breakout tournament for the young Slovak star. Through two games, she has recorded four points (two goals, two assists), building on her reputation as one of the most exciting young talents in international women’s hockey. Her ability to create offense and elevate her teammates’ play has been a key factor in Slovakia’s strong start to the tournament.
The Slovak team’s success stems from a combination of offensive firepower and disciplined defensive play. Goaltender Andrea Rišianová has been instrumental in the team’s success, recording shutouts in both victories over Hungary and Norway. Her ability to make key saves at critical moments has allowed Slovakia to maintain leads and build momentum throughout games.
Slovakia’s presence in Division I Group A represents a significant step in the nation’s women’s hockey development program. After being relegated from the Top Division following the 2018 IIHF Women’s World Championship, the Slovaks have worked diligently to rebuild their program and return to elite competition. The current tournament serves as a crucial opportunity to regain their status among the world’s top women’s hockey nations.
As Slovakia prepares for its next challenge against Denmark on April 19, the team remains focused on executing its game plan and maintaining the high level of play that has defined its early tournament success. With promotion within reach, the Slovaks understand that consistency and discipline will be essential in the final stretch of competition.
The victory over Norway not only advanced Slovakia’s promotion hopes but also highlighted the growing depth of talent within the Slovak women’s hockey system. Players like Lopušanová, who developed through the Slovak hockey system before pursuing opportunities abroad, exemplify the potential of the nation’s player development pathways.
For Slovakia, the path back to the Top Division is clear: win the remaining games and secure promotion. With the team playing with confidence and purpose, the opportunity to return to elite international women’s hockey is within grasp.
Stay tuned to Archysport for continued coverage of the 2026 IIHF Women’s World Championship Division I Group A tournament as Slovakia seeks to secure its return to the elite ranks of women’s international hockey.
