A Canadian women’s team had finished every tournament on the podium since the event debuted as an Olympic sport in 1998. But, Canada concluded round robin play with a 4-5 record and failed to advance in PyeongChang.
The four teams that did reach the playoffs will return to competition in the semifinal round Feb. 23 and the winners will meet in the gold medal game one day later. The losers will play for bronze Feb. 24.
Here’s everything you need to know heading into the medal round.
South Korea vs. Japan
The South Korean team opened play with a shocking 8-6 upset of Canada, the pre-tournament favorite. From there, they continued to rack up victories, winning seven of their next eight games.
Japan handed South Korea its only loss in round robin play when the teams met Feb. 15. In that game, South Korea led by two through seven frames before Japan scored four points over the last three ends to secure a come from behind win.
Sweden vs. Great Britain
Sweden found immediate success in PyeongChang, beginning round robin play with five straight victories, including wins over Canada and the OAR.
After two straight losses, the Swedish team closed preliminary action with two more wins.
Meanwhile, Great Britain is the only team in either semifinal that was expected to be in medal contention entering the 2018 Winter Games.
Click here to read the full semifinals preview
