MILAN, Italy — Finland has officially secured the bronze medal in men’s ice hockey at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, defeating Slovakia 6-1 on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
The Finnish squad, the defending gold medalists from Beijing 2022, bounced back from a heartbreaking 3-2 semifinal loss to Canada to claim their fifth Olympic medal in the last six tournaments featuring NHL players. After a tight start, Finland broke the game open with a dominant four-goal third period to distance themselves from an upstart Slovakian team.
Game Summary: Finland vs. Slovakia
The bronze medal match saw Finland take an early lead, but it was the final frame that defined the contest. Erik Haula led the offensive surge with two goals, while Joel Armia contributed a goal and two assists. The victory provided a sense of redemption for a Finnish team that had surrendered a 2-0 lead to Canada just 24 hours earlier in the semifinals.
- Final Score: Finland 6, Slovakia 1
- Key Performers: Erik Haula (2G), Joel Armia (1G, 2A), Miro Heiskanen (Defensive standout)
- Venue: Milan, Italy
Finland’s Olympic Legacy Continues
With this victory, Finland continues its streak as the most consistent medal collector in the NHL era of Olympic hockey. Since 1998, the Finnish men’s team has earned medals in Nagano (Bronze), Vancouver (Bronze), Sochi (Bronze), Beijing (Gold), and now Milano Cortina (Bronze).
Slovakia, despite the loss, finished the tournament in fourth place. Their path to the bronze medal game included a semifinal loss to the United States, who defeated them 6-2 on Friday night.
Looking Ahead to the Gold Medal Game
While Finland celebrates their podium finish, the focus of the hockey world now shifts to the highly anticipated gold medal final. The United States is scheduled to face Canada today, Sunday, February 22, 2026. This “North American Dream Match” features a goaltending battle between American Connor Hellebuyck and Canadian Jordan Binnington.
The U.S. is seeking its first Olympic gold medal in men’s hockey since the “Miracle on Ice” in 1980, while Canada looks to add to its record-breaking tally of Olympic titles.