Gophers Upset Ohio State, Set Up WCHA Title Showdown with Wisconsin

The Minnesota Golden Gophers women’s hockey team pulled off a thrilling upset against top-seeded Ohio State in the WCHA Final Faceoff semifinals, earning a spot in the conference championship game against rival Wisconsin. With a gritty performance and standout goaltending, the Gophers secured a 2-1 victory over the Buckeyes at Ridder Arena in Minneapolis, shaking up the race for the WCHA title.

Minnesota entered the game as the underdog, having struggled against Ohio State in previous matchups this season. However, the Gophers’ defensive discipline and opportunistic scoring proved to be the difference in a tightly contested battle. Sophomore goaltender Skylar Vetter was instrumental in the win, making 34 saves and frustrating Ohio State’s high-powered offense.

The Gophers took an early lead in the first period when Abbey Murphy found the back of the net off a crisp pass from Grace Zumwinkle. Ohio State responded in the second period with a goal from Sophie Jaques, but Minnesota refused to back down. Late in the third, Zumwinkle delivered the game-winner on a breakaway, capitalizing on a defensive miscue from the Buckeyes.

Head coach Brad Frost praised his team’s resilience after the game. “This was an incredible effort from our players. Ohio State is a fantastic team, but we played a smart, disciplined game and got the big plays when we needed them. Skylar was outstanding in net, and our leadership stepped up in a big way.”

With the victory, Minnesota advances to face Wisconsin in the WCHA championship game, renewing one of college hockey’s fiercest rivalries. The Badgers, who defeated Minnesota Duluth 3-2 in the other semifinal, are looking to reclaim the WCHA title after falling short last season. Minnesota and Wisconsin split their regular-season series, making Saturday’s final a highly anticipated showdown.

Wisconsin boasts one of the most dynamic offenses in the nation, led by freshman standout Kirsten Simms and veteran forward Casey O’Brien. The Badgers’ goaltending tandem of Cami Kronish and Jane Gervais has also been strong throughout the season. However, Minnesota’s ability to shut down Ohio State’s attack has given them confidence heading into the championship game.

“We know what’s at stake,” said Zumwinkle. “Wisconsin is a great team, and it’s always a battle when we face them. But we believe in each other, and we’re playing our best hockey at the right time.”

A win for Minnesota would not only give them their first WCHA tournament championship since 2018 but also solidify their positioning in the NCAA tournament. Both teams are expected to make the national tournament regardless of the outcome, but the conference title carries significant momentum heading into the postseason.

Puck drop for the WCHA championship game is set for Saturday evening at Ridder Arena. With a packed crowd expected and a trophy on the line, the latest chapter in the Gophers-Badgers rivalry promises to be another classic.