The German women's national ice hockey team entered their last group stage match with the reassuring knowledge that they had already qualified for the quarterfinals of the Olympic Games in Milan. This was confirmed prior to their match against the host nation Italy, thanks to Sweden's 4-0 victory over Japan, ensuring that Germany could not be displaced from one of the top three slots in Group B regardless of the outcome.

Despite their qualification, the Italian team, driven by a fervent local crowd of 3,898 fans chanting 'I-ta-li-a!', was determined to put on a strong performance. The game was marked by a high level of intensity and at times seemed excessively physical, as the referees allowed a lot to slide, resulting in a match played on a precarious edge of acceptability. Fortunately for both teams, the match concluded without significant injuries, a welcome outcome from such a heated contest.

Germany ultimately triumphed with a 2-1 victory, with the decisive goal scored by Lau late in the game. This victory not only allowed Germany to maintain their successful run in the tournament but also showcased their resilience and ability to perform under pressure, setting a promising stage for their upcoming matches in the knockout round. This match highlighted the competitive spirit present in women's ice hockey and the significant support the Italian team garnered from their home fans.