Team Finland and Team Slovakia are set to compete for Olympic bronze in men’s ice hockey at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games. Both teams faced defeat in the semifinals but will have another opportunity to vie for a medal on Saturday. The bronze medal game is scheduled for 2:40 p.m. ET and can be viewed on multiple platforms, including Peacock, USA, and CBC.
Recent Semifinal Matches
Finland experienced a narrow loss against Canada, relinquishing a 2-0 lead. The game ended dramatically with Nathan MacKinnon scoring on a power play just 35.2 seconds before the final whistle. Conversely, Slovakia faced a more significant setback, losing to the United States by a score of 6-2.
Players’ Reactions
Despite the heartbreak, Finnish forward Kaapo Kakko expressed a sense of determination for the upcoming game, stating, “It’s still a big game tomorrow. And it’s something you still want to win.”
Unfamiliar Territory for Some Players
For a few members of Team Finland, this loss marks a deviation from their usual success. Forwards Eetu Luostarinen and Anton Lundell, along with defenseman Niko Mikkola, are experiencing their first elimination loss since the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs. They were part of the Florida Panthers team that won back-to-back championships.
- Eetu Luostarinen: Part of the 2023 Stanley Cup-winning team.
- Anton Lundell: Also a back-to-back champion with the Panthers.
- Niko Mikkola: Previously eliminated in the first round with the New York Rangers.
Luostarinen commented, “Obviously it [stinks], but we still have a game and just try to put all of our focus on that.” Lundell urged his teammates to “turn the page and move forward.”
Looking Ahead
Both teams are eager to put their semifinal disappointments behind them. With a chance for bronze on the line, Finland and Slovakia will battle it out for pride and glory at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
