Sweden and Finland will face off in the IIHF World Championships semifinals Saturday with the winner earning a chance to play in the final on Saturday.
The Swedish are coming off a huge victory against Canada. After falling behind 45 seconds into the second period on a goal from Canada's Steven Stamkos, the Swedes fought back with two goals from Nicklas Danielsson at the 5:41 and 9:35 mark of the third period. Unfortunately a goal just under 11 minutes into the final frame from Claude Giroux tied the game at two. Neither side capitalized in overtime and the game was eventually decided in the shootout. Swedish keeper Jhonas Enroth finished the match with 40 saves on 42 shots.
The Fins ran out to a 3-0 lead in the first period against Slovakia thanks to goals from Ossi Vaananen and Petri Kontiola. However, the Slovakian side fought back and tied the game at three just 30 seconds into the third period. At the 8:31 mark, Juhamatti Aaltonen scored the game winner for Finland and put them through to the semifinal.
Sweden's tournament started with a loss to Switzerland during the group stage. Back to back wins against the Czech Republic and Belarus were followed by the loss to Canada. Sweden finished off the group stage with a 2-0 win against Slovenia and a 4-2 victory against Denmark.
Finland opened the tournament with a 4-3 overtime win against Germany on May 3. On May 6, the Finnish took down France 3-1, but two days later the team was defeated 4-1 against the United States. Fortunately Finland bounced back with a 3-2 win against Russia and 7-2 blowout victory against Austria. The squad finished the group stage with a 3-2 overtime win against Latvia to clinch the top spot in the group.
Predictions: Sweden got past Canada and is likely roaring with confidence. Look for them to make life impossible for Finland and storm away with a 4-1 win.
Start Time: 9 AM EST
TV: NBCSN
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