Sarah Fillier misses Canada opener at Women's Worlds

Team Canada forward Sarah Fillier was not in the roster for the opening match against Sweden at the 2026 IIHF Women’s World Championship. Her absence comes after she sustained an injury during a pre-tournament exhibition game against the United States.

During that contest last week, which ended in a 4-0 defeat for Canada, Fillier suffered an awkward fall into the boards following a shove by American defender Megan Keller. She immediately skated to the bench and departed for the locker room holding her shoulder, taking no further part in the fixture.

The 26-year-old forward previously registered nine goals and 23 points across 29 appearances last season with the New York Sirens in the PWHL. Earlier this year at the Winter Olympics in February, she contributed three goals and six points in seven games as the Canadian squad captured the silver medal.

Sarah Fillier sidelined with shoulder injury

In addition to Fillier, second-year Clarkson University forward Sara Manness was also scratched from the tournament opener against Sweden. The 19-year-old has recorded eight goals and 13 points over eight NCAA games this season.

With Fillier unavailable for the opening encounter, winger Daryl Watts moved up to the top forward line. Meanwhile, the coaching staff opted to dress eight defenders for the game.

Following the Friday matchup against Sweden, Canada is scheduled to play against Japan on Sunday. The team will then meet host Denmark on Monday before concluding the preliminary group stage on November 11 against Finland.

Forward Sarah Fillier missed Canada's opening match at the Women's World Championship due to a shoulder injury.

Why it matters

The absence of a key offensive contributor like Sarah Fillier forces adjustments to Team Canada's forward lines during a major international tournament. As the team navigates a busy preliminary schedule against Sweden, Japan, Denmark, and Finland, managing player health and lineup depth remains critical for their campaign.