Ohio State Dominates Northeastern to Advance to NCAA Championship Game

In a decisive semifinal match of the NCAA Women's Frozen Four, the top-seeded Ohio State Buckeyes defeated the fifth-seeded Northeastern Huskies 5-0 at Pegula Ice Arena in University Park, Pennsylvania, on March 20, 2026. This victory marks Ohio State's fifth consecutive appearance in the national championship game, where they will face the second-seeded Wisconsin Badgers on March 22.

Frozen Four Semifinals: Wisco, OSU on Another Collision CourseOhio State rolls past Northeastern in Frozen Four, reaches fifth straight title gameOhio State Shuts Out Northeastern, Advances to National Title GameUSA TodayMilwaukee Journal-SentinalOhio State’s women’s hockey team takes on Northeastern in a Frozen Four semifinalAssociated PressOhio State, Wisconsin set for another showdown for NCAA hockey titleColumbus Dispatch

The Buckeyes quickly established dominance, scoring four goals in the final 10 minutes of the first period. Joy Dunne opened the scoring at 10:14, capitalizing on a rebound from Jocelyn Amos' shot. Kaia Malachino doubled the lead at 16:33 with a well-executed individual effort, followed by Sanni Vanhanen and Emma Peschel, who scored within a minute of each other to extend the lead to 4-0 before the first intermission. Sara Swiderski added a fifth goal early in the third period, sealing the shutout victory.

Ohio State, Wisconsin set for another showdown for NCAA hockey title

Despite a strong start, where Northeastern led in shots on goal early in the game, they struggled to maintain possession and capitalize on opportunities. Coach Dave Flint noted that the team had difficulty adjusting after Ohio State's rapid scoring. "You let your guard down for a second and that’s what’s going to happen," Flint remarked, emphasizing the need for vigilance against Ohio State's potent offense.

Boston Globe

Northeastern's goaltender, Lisa Jönsson, faced a barrage of shots, making 37 saves throughout the match. The Huskies, who had a strong season overall, faced challenges in this semifinal, particularly in the first period where they allowed four goals in quick succession.

Ohio State’s women’s hockey team takes on Northeastern in a Frozen Four semifinal

Ohio State's offensive performance was marked by contributions from multiple players, with five different scorers and ten players recording points in the game. The Buckeyes outshot the Huskies 42-15, demonstrating their offensive prowess and defensive strength. Hailey MacLeod, Ohio State's goaltender, recorded her fifth shutout of the season, making 15 saves.

Ohio State rolls past Northeastern in Frozen Four, reaches fifth straight title game

Northeastern's season, while ending in disappointment, showcased resilience as they navigated challenges, including injuries and the loss of their home rink earlier in the year. Captain Lily Shannon expressed pride in her team's efforts, stating, "We have fought through so much, and I just couldn’t be more proud of our team."

Women’s hockey shut out by Ohio State in Frozen Four

Ohio State's victory sets the stage for a highly anticipated championship matchup against Wisconsin, a team they have faced in the finals for the past three years. The Buckeyes aim to reclaim the title after falling to Wisconsin in the previous two championship games. The upcoming game is scheduled for March 22 at 4 p.m. ET and will be broadcast live on ESPNU.

Frozen Four Semifinals: Wisco, OSU on Another Collision Course

Ohio State head coach Nadine Muzerall praised her team's performance and emphasized the importance of maintaining focus heading into the championship game. "We just knocked off a really good team," she stated, highlighting the need for continued diligence and preparation.

Columbus Dispatch

• “You let your guard down for a second and that’s what’s going to happen,” — Dave Flint, Northeastern Coach

Boston Globe

• “The score today does not resemble how our team has carried ourselves throughout this entire year,” — Holly Abela, Northeastern Alternate Captain

Boston Globe

• “We just knocked off a really good team,” — Nadine Muzerall, Ohio State Coach

Columbus Dispatch

This semifinal match not only showcased the competitive spirit of women's college hockey but also set the stage for an exciting championship game that promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the season.

Frozen Four Semifinals: Wisco, OSU on Another Collision Course