Semifinal Showdown
Finland secured a 4-2 victory over Canada in the semifinals of the International Ice Hockey Federation world championship, advancing to the championship game with a shot at a fifth title. Aleksander Barkov opened the scoring, while Konsta Helenius added a goal and an assist, and Mikael Granlund contributed two assists. Goaltender Justus Annunen turned away 28 shots, preserving the lead after a dominant second period in which Finland outshot Canada 10-3.
Switzerland, meanwhile, cruised past Norway with a 6-0 shutout, highlighted by Leonardo Genoni’s 20 saves and contributions from Nico Hischier and Sven Andrighetto. The Swiss team will aim to capture their first-ever championship, having reached the final for the third consecutive year.
Road to the Final
The upcoming final will pit two of Europe’s powerhouses against each other, with Finland seeking to extend its legacy and Switzerland poised for a historic breakthrough. Both squads have demonstrated depth, balanced scoring and resilient goaltending throughout the tournament.
Canada, despite the loss, will contest the bronze medal match against Norway, hoping to salvage the tournament with a strong performance from rookie forward Macklin Celebrini and veteran Sidney Crosby, who combined for key points earlier in the competition.
The tournament has also been marked by disciplinary action, as Timo Meier received a one‑game suspension for kneeing Oskar Sundqvist in the semifinal against Sweden, a move that could affect Switzerland’s lineup.