New Zealand Bounces Back with 7-1 Win Over Denmark

After a disappointing loss against Poland, New Zealand found their form, defeating Denmark 7-1 to secure their place in the Kellowna round. The Kiwi team, led by Peter de Bruin, scored points in four out of five ends, with a crucial three-point steal in the seventh deciding the match.

Excited is an understatement. There was a bit of relief, too, given how well the guys played this week. It was quite deflating to lose this morning, so we’re ecstatic to get through.

Australia Women’s Team Stages Comeback Against Hungary

Australia’s women’s team reversed their fortunes mid-game against Hungary, claiming the last OQE berth in a nail-biting comeback. Trailing 3-4 after five ends, the Australian side stole two points in the seventh and added singles in the eighth and ninth to lead 7-4. Hungary was unable to overturn this deficit in the tenth.

It’s a very exciting win for us… We’re really pleased to have made that final qualification spot. The girls have worked so hard.

What’s Next?

Both New Zealand and Australia will now compete in the OQE in Kellowna, Canada, where the final two NOC quota spots for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 will be obtained.

The OQE will feature three competitions: women’s, men’s, and mixed doubles. The curling events at Milano Cortina 2026 begin on Wednesday, 4 February. You can find the complete schedule here.