Mon Jan 05 04:20:00 UTC 2026: ## Finland Stuns Defending Champion U.S. in World Junior Quarterfinals

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Arttu Valola’s overtime goal propelled Finland to a stunning 4-3 victory over the United States in the World Junior Hockey Championship quarterfinals on Friday night, avenging last year’s final loss to the Americans.

The game, played in St. Paul, saw a back-and-forth battle with momentum swinging between the two teams. Boston University defenseman Cole Hutson, who returned from injury, opened the scoring for the U.S. early in the second period. Cole Eiserman gave the U.S. a 2-1 lead in the second on the powerplay. However, Finland rallied in the third, with Lee Tuuva and Joona Saarelainen scoring within a minute to give Finland a 3-2 lead. With their goalie pulled, Michigan State’s Lee Ryker tied the game with under two minutes remaining, sending the game into overtime.

Valola’s decisive goal in overtime sealed the victory for Finland, sending the defending champions home and setting up a semifinal clash with Sweden.

“Got to give credit to the U.S,” said Finnish captain Aron Kiviharju. “That’s a hell of a team… But I said we wanted that revenge from last year, and I think we kind of earned it tonight.”

U.S. coach Bob Motzko, head coach of the University of Minnesota expressed his disappointment. “It’s an empty feeling right now, but our guys gave it all they had. Give Finland credit.”

In other quarterfinal action:

  • Sweden defeated Latvia 6-3 and will face Finland in the semifinals. Anton Frondell scored twice for Sweden, while Leo Sahlin Wallenius had a goal and two assists.
  • Canada dominated Slovakia 7-1, setting up a semifinal matchup with Czechia. Canada scored five goals in the first period alone.
  • Czechia defeated Switzerland 6-2.

In relegation action, Germany defeated Denmark 8-4, securing their spot in next year’s tournament and relegating Denmark to Division I-A.

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