Ice hockey · Global
Italy earn their first Olympic women’s hockey victory against France
Rebecca Roccella’s go-ahead goal helped launch the hosts’ tournament.
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Italy defeated France 4–1 in the first Olympic game staged at the Milano Santagiulia arena, earning the country’s first women’s hockey victory at the Games. The hosts played aggressively in a fast and physical encounter that also marked France’s Olympic debut.
Rebecca Roccella scored the go-ahead goal late in the second period, while Kristin Della Rovere contributed a goal and an assist. Italy outshot France 46–15, with French goalkeeper Alice Philbert’s early saves preventing the home advantage from becoming larger.
Martina Fedel supported Italy’s win in goal. Italian defender Laura Fortino described the emotional significance of the performance before the home crowd, while France acknowledged needing time to settle into the tournament. Both teams continued into further group B games after contrasting openings.
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