Finland's under-20 men's ice hockey team beat Sweden in a thrilling semi-final match, winning 4–3 in overtime to secure their place in the IIHF World Junior Championship final in Ottawa, Canada.
The decisive goal came from 19-year-old Benjamin Rautiainen, who fired the puck from a near-impossible angle past the Swedish goalkeeper during an overtime power play, without looking at the net. It marked Rautiainen's second goal and fourth point of the tournament.
"I caught a glimpse of the goalie from the corner of my eye and thought, 'If I can get the puck there, I'll go for it,'" Rautiainen explained after the game.
"I just aimed as hard as I could for the five-hole and luckily it went in."
For Rautiainen, playing in the final is a lifelong dream come true.
"It's a pretty incredible feeling. I've watched these tournaments as a kid and always supported Finland. To be playing in the final myself now — there's no better game to be part of."
Sweden dominates late, but Lions outlast
Sweden controlled much of the third period and carried their momentum into overtime, even earning a power play during the extra frame.
However, Finland's defence, led by goaltender Petteri Rimpinen with 43 saves, withstood the onslaught.
Once Sweden's power play ended, it was Finland's turn with the man advantage. With just over 30 seconds remaining in overtime, Rautiainen capitalised on a pass from Konsta Helenius, who registered four assists in the match.
Key performers propel Finland to victory
In addition to Rautiainen's heroics, Finland's standout players included Helenius and Jesse Kiiskinen. Kiiskinen scored yet another goal, bringing his tournament total to five, making him Finland's leading scorer.
Rimpinen, Helenius, and Kiiskinen were named Finland's best players of the tournament so far, with Rimpinen's stellar performance in goal proving vital to the semi-final victory.
Final against the United States
Finland will face the United States in the championship game after the Americans defeated the Czech Republic 4–1 in their semi-final. The final is set to begin at 2:30am Finnish time on Monday.
This marks Finland's first appearance in the World Junior Championship final since 2022, when they lost to Canada. Finland last claimed the title in 2019.