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After a tightly contested first period, Switzerland drew first blood with a goal after a penalty kill. Finland quickly responded with a powerplay goal and at one point led the game, however, a rapid counter from the Swiss turned the score to 3:2 in their favor. Finland leveled again, forcing overtime, where Switzerland clinched the win, leaving Finland’s bid to reach the semi-finals uncertain.
Penalties: 2:7. PP goals: 1:0. SH goals: 0:0.
Referees: Gebauer, Turhobr – Brož, Šimánek. Attendance: 1185.
Report
Both teams started evenly, as reflected in the shot count. Finland had an early powerplay opportunity but couldn’t break through. Chances emerged – Oliver Torkki and Tim Münger both tested the goalies – but neither side scored in the opening frame. Switzerland broke the deadlock 28 seconds into the second period when Yanis Lutz intercepted a cleared puck and converted a breakaway. Finland equalised just two minutes later through Jiko Laitinen’s poweplay finish from the right circle.
The third period saw Finland take the lead at the 51-minute mark through Oscar Hemming’s clean finish. But the Swiss countered – Lou Bächler scored with just three minutes remaining on the clock and Thierry Berger scored within regulation as well to complete the comeback.
Rasmus Rinne forced overtime for Finland with a final-minute goal, but in the 64th minute, Switzerland prevailed. Lennox Hirt’s shot deflected in off Sol Fueter’s skate, securing Switzerland’s first tournament win and leaving Finland’s semi-final hopes hanging.