The numbers
In a thrilling start to the Women’s World Curling Championship in Calgary, Team Canada, featuring Val Sweeting, achieved an impressive 9-3 victory over Turkey and a hard-fought 7-5 win against Scotland on March 18, 2026. With these victories, Canada now holds a record of 7-1, tying for first place with Switzerland, both teams showcasing their skills on the international stage.
Despite the team’s success, Sweeting’s performance has seen a slight decline, with her shooting percentage dropping from 83% in the first four games to 77.8% in the last four. This shift comes as the team navigates the challenges of the championship, including the effects of sharpened stones that altered gameplay dynamics on March 18.
“I think we just lost control a little bit in the middle ends there,” said Shannon Birchard, reflecting on the team’s performance against Scotland, which was tied 5-5 after the sixth end. Birchard’s comments highlight the competitive nature of the matches and the need for the team to regain their footing as they move forward.
Team Canada, which also includes Kerri Einarson, Shannon Birchard, and Karlee Burgess, is on a quest for their first world title since Rachel Homan’s team claimed back-to-back crowns. Einarson, despite dealing with a sprained finger from a post-national championship celebration, remains optimistic about the team’s prospects. “When someone shakes my hand, it aches. That’s why I’m not shaking hands,” she noted, emphasizing her determination to lead the team to victory.
As the championship progresses, observers are keenly watching the performance of other teams. China’s Team Wang Rui has shown resilience, improving their record to 4-4 after a rocky start of 1-3. Meanwhile, Sweden’s Isabella Wrana struggled in the evening draw against Japan, posting a shooting percentage of just 31%.
Looking ahead, Canada’s next matches are against Korea and Norway on March 19, 2026. With the top six teams advancing to playoffs, the stakes are high, and every game counts. The excitement in Calgary is palpable as fans rally behind their teams, eager to see who will emerge victorious.
As the championship unfolds, the curling community remains hopeful for Team Canada, particularly for Val Sweeting, as they strive to overcome challenges and secure their place in the playoffs. Details remain unconfirmed about the team’s strategies moving forward, but one thing is certain: the spirit of competition is alive and well in Calgary.
