Montreal Victoire Triumphs in PWHL with First Walter Cup Win

The Montreal Victoire secured their first Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) title by defeating the Ottawa Charge 4-0 in Game 4 of the Walter Cup Finals. Abby Roque played a pivotal role, scoring twice, while Ann-Renée Desbiens made 23 critical saves. Maggie Flaherty and Lina Ljungblom also added goals to the scoreline, sealing the victory.

Montreal started the best-of-five series at home, clinching two overtime wins, but stumbled in a 2-1 loss to Ottawa on Monday. Home teams had dominated the recent finals games, with victories in the last five matches.

“Just so much love for this group,” said Roque. “The challenges we overcame during these playoffs required immense heart. I’m proud of this team and love every single member.”

This win marked an important milestone, as the Minnesota Frost had previously claimed the first two league titles, defeating Ottawa in last year’s championship. Montreal’s path to the Cup included conquering Minnesota in the semifinals this season.

“Congratulations to the Montreal Victoire, the 2026 PWHL Walter Cup champions!” Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney celebrated on social media. “An incredible and historic season — the Cup comes home for the first time.”

Montreal’s captain, Marie-Philip Poulin, was named the playoff MVP, tallying eight points through two goals and six assists, tying for the postseason lead. Poulin’s leadership was instrumental, especially given the league’s uncertain inception following the closure of the Canadian Women’s Hockey League (CWHL).

“After the CWHL closed its doors, there were two years of uncertainty,” Poulin noted. “A dedicated group united to establish this league. Winning the Walter Cup three years later feels truly rewarding.”

Roque initiated the scoring at 3:49 in the second period, redirecting the puck off a defender’s stick. She struck again with a short-handed goal in the third period, cutting across the crease and executing a deft backhand shot past the goalie.

“Playoff hockey is my passion,” Roque shared. “I thrive in the conditions where physical play prevails and space is limited. It’s genuinely enjoyable for me.”

Roque’s second goal occurred during a penalty situation against Poulin, but Montreal demonstrated resilience, successfully defending against penalties in the first two periods. Ottawa, conversely, played a clean game without penalties.

Flaherty extended the lead to 3-0 with a sharp shot from the blue line into the top right corner, while Ljungblom capped the scoring by capitalizing on a turnover with 4:16 remaining.