MILAN — The United States women’s hockey team delivered a commanding 5-0 victory over longtime rival Canada in preliminary-round play, but coach John Wroblewski made it clear the job is far from finished.

Despite the decisive win, Wroblewski cautioned against complacency, comparing the Olympic journey to climbing a mountain. The most dangerous moment, he suggested, comes when a team starts believing it has already accomplished something. With the gold medal game still more than a week away, he emphasized that the Americans remain focused on the larger goal.

The victory secured first place in Group A for Team USA and marked Canada’s most lopsided loss in Olympic competition — as well as the first time the Canadians have ever been shut out at the Games. The Americans have now won seven straight matchups against their rivals, continuing a dominant stretch that includes sweeping Canada in a pre-Olympic exhibition series.

The U.S. enters the knockout stage as the tournament favorite, having outscored opponents 20-1 across four preliminary games. Forward Tessa Janecke said the team approached Canada no differently than any other opponent, maintaining the same mindset regardless of the stakes or rivalry.

A roster featuring seven current college players showcased its depth and speed. University of Wisconsin standout Caroline Harvey opened the scoring early and finished with a goal and two assists. Her Badger teammates Laila Edwards and Kirsten Simms also found the net, with Edwards scoring in her Olympic debut. Abbey Murphy, captain at the University of Minnesota, assisted on three goals.

Goaltender Aerin Frankel stopped all 20 shots she faced, earning her second shutout of the tournament. She credited the team’s defensive play and relentless pace for making her role manageable. Veteran captain Hilary Knight added an assist, tying the U.S. record for most Olympic points in women’s hockey.

Canada struggled from the outset and compounded problems with penalties and turnovers. The absence of captain Marie-Philip Poulin, sidelined with a lower-body injury, was noticeable. While Canadian coach Troy Ryan acknowledged Poulin’s importance, he did not use her absence as an excuse, citing poor puck management and uncharacteristic mistakes.

Ann-Renée Desbiens allowed five goals before being replaced late in the game. Canadian players admitted breakdowns piled up and led to the one-sided result, though they expressed confidence in regrouping ahead of the elimination rounds.

The U.S. will face host nation Italy in the quarterfinals, while Canada awaits its own playoff matchup. Though the Americans’ dominance has been evident, Wroblewski’s message remains clear: the path to gold requires sustained focus.

For now, Team USA looks fast, confident and difficult to defend — but as their coach reminded them, reaching the summit is only part of the challenge.