Finland Blasts Past Italy with 11-Goal Statement Win, Kakko Shines as Tolvanen Steps Up
Team Finland came out firing on all cylinders Saturday, steamrolling Italy in an 11-0 rout that left no doubt about their place among the tournament’s top contenders. With the win, Finland climbed to second in Group B, wrapping up group play with a 2-0-0-1 record and sending a clear message to the rest of the field: they're heating up at just the right time.
This one was all Finland, all night. Nearly every skater in blue and white found the scoresheet in what turned into a showcase of depth, speed, and relentless puck movement. The offense was humming, and the Italians simply couldn’t keep up.
Among the standouts was Seattle Kraken forward Kaapo Kakko, who picked up three points in the blowout. Kakko’s performance was a reminder of the high-end skill he brings when he’s playing with confidence-and Finland gave him the perfect platform to shine. He looked fast, assertive, and dangerous every time he touched the puck.
Fellow Kraken forward Eeli Tolvanen also saw a shift in his role, moving up to Finland’s top line in the absence of Anton Lundell, who was sidelined due to illness. Tolvanen slid in alongside Dallas Stars duo Roope Hintz and Mikko Rantanen, creating a formidable trio that brought size, skill, and a scoring touch. While Tolvanen didn’t officially register a point, he did have a goal waved off for offside-an unlucky break in an otherwise strong showing.
The Finns didn’t miss a beat despite the lineup shuffle. Their ability to plug players into different roles and still maintain chemistry speaks volumes about both the talent on this roster and the coaching staff’s adaptability. With the knockout rounds looming, that kind of flexibility could prove crucial.
Elsewhere in the tournament, Germany suffered its first setback, falling 4-3 to a scrappy Latvian squad. Goaltender Philipp Grubauer, also of the Kraken, was between the pipes for Germany, who now face a tough test in their final group-stage game against Team USA. That matchup will go a long way in determining the playoff picture, especially with the Americans finding their rhythm.
Speaking of the U.S., they had to battle back after Denmark came out swinging early. Oscar Fisker Molgaard gave Denmark a jolt with an assist on the opening goal-his second point in as many games.
The young Kraken rookie has been a bright spot for Denmark, showing poise and playmaking ability on the international stage. Despite the early punch, the Americans settled in and pulled away for a 6-3 win.
Denmark may be winless through two games, but they’ve got a real shot to notch their first victory when they face Latvia next. Molgaard continues to be a player to watch, especially as he gains more experience in high-pressure moments.
With group play winding down, the tournament is starting to take shape. Once the dust settles after the USA-Germany clash, the path to the gold medal game will be set-and if Saturday was any indication, Finland is more than ready for the road ahead.