At this year’s Women’s Euro Hockey Tour, the Finnish national hockey team experienced mixed results, facing tough competition against their European rivals.
Finland played particularly notable matches against Sweden and Switzerland, concluding with varying levels of success. The first match came against Sweden, where the Finnish team, playing on home ice, were upset with a final score of 2-1.
During this tightly contested third-place game, Sweden took the lead early when Lisa Johansson found the puck just outside the crease, making a deft move to beat Finland’s goalie Emilia Krykko. Despite initial setbacks, Finland showed resilience. Midway through the third period, Sweden solidified their advantage when Hanna Thuvik facilitated another goal, setting up Sofie Lundin for what seemed like the game-altering pass. Lundin returned the puck to Thuvik, who redirected it past Krykko, extending Sweden's lead to 2-0.
Yet, Finland didn’t give up easily. A spark came when Sanni Vanhanen managed to score shorthanded after slipping through Sweden’s defenses, making it 2-1. With momentum shifting, it looked as if Julia Schalin could equalize for Finland soon after, though her goal was controversially disallowed due to high stick rules, leaving Finland to settle for defeat.
The match highlighted various challenges for Finland, including the absence of several key players like Ronja Savolainen, Susanna Tapani, and others who could have made substantial differences on the ice.
Adding salt to their wounds, Finland approached their subsequent game against Switzerland, seeking redemption. Despite hopes of recovery, Finland struggled once more, falling to Switzerland 1-0. The Swiss team, having had their share of losses, came out swinging, aggressive and coordinated, clearly revitalized from their prior performances.
Christoph Bertschy proved to be the game-changer for Switzerland, netting the only goal of the game thanks to an impressive pass from Fabian Heldner. This match was marked by strong performances, especially from Swiss goalie Ludovic Waeber, who earned his first international shutout, making key saves throughout the 60 minutes.
Switzerland’s victory was particularly significant; it marked their first home win after 10 consecutive losses at the Euro Hockey Tour, providing much-needed morale for the team. Despite the loss, Finland maintained strong spirit, though frustrations continued as their scoring opportunities failed to materialize.
Throughout the Euro Hockey Tour, Finland dealt not only with tough competition but internal challenges as key players were sidelined. The team now faces the task of regrouping and reflecting on the tournament as it prepares for future international competitions.
The results at the tournament suggest the Finnish team can take valuable lessons forward, opening opportunities to build strength and cohesion as they look to improve their performance on the international stage.
