Finland turned the scoreline around and won over Canada

It was a promising game before its opening face-off and both sides fulfilled this prediction. Canada took an early two-goal lead, but struggled ever since and the Finnish persistance turned it around into a „Suomi“ deal.

Canada had a terrific start into the game. They let Jokinen alone in front of Leggat, but the Canadian goalie made the save and ten seconds later, it was him who could have celebrate. Kyle Sheen sent the puck past Taponen with a shot from between the circles and even though the Finnish goalie touched it, he couldn’t get it out.

Finland wanted to equalize just like that, but Pellinen was denied with an incredible save by Leggat and the North Americans stroke again. 2-on-1 breakaway opened some space for Jordan Draper, who beat Taponen on short post. All of that still inside first five minutes.

However, the Finnish still tried to get back as soon as possible and with few more chances, they finally pulled one down. Persistance resulted in Marko Virtala‘s goal, which surprised Leggat during his weaker moment. Anyway, the Canadian goaltender payed his fault back in a minute stealing an open-net goal from Erkkilä

Canada could get back two goals in front with an early powerplay in the second quarter, but Finland equalized instead. Mistake in Canadian powerplay combination was punished by Camilo Miettinen, who finished a 2-on-1 breakaway for his side.

Finland could add more before the halftime, but in the end, they could have been thankful for 2:2. Especially when Taponen robbed Terry with a save reminding Dominik Hasek with five seconds to go.

The Europeans carried on and soon, they completed the turnover. At first, Saarinen hit a post in powerplay, but few minutes later Kim Strömberg scored from circles to send his team in front.

For more, Kim Strömberg quickly added another one with a one-timer from the spot and Canada had last quarter to hit back.

Finland gave away a penalty after the break, but fortune stood with them as Hammond slapped it to the crossbar. On the other side, there was a similar situation after Virtala’s shot, which stamped the post as well.

Canada secured a dramatic ending with a powerplay goal later in the final period. Chris Terry’s slap shot found its way into the net and gave the Canadians a hope to equalize. However, it was Sami Markkanen who sealed the deal with the late empty netter.