The Finnish women's national ice hockey team, known as the 'Naisleijonat', is set to begin their Olympic tournament today in Milan. Their opening match against Canada was postponed due to a stomach virus outbreak that left only a few players capable of competing. As they prepare for their match against the USA, the roster appears to be strengthening, with 14 players participating in Friday's practice. However, Finland is still expected to face significant odds in today's game against the high-ranking USA team.

Statistically, Finland's chances of winning in regular play against the USA are about 1%, with the USA holding a commanding 97% likelihood of victory. Historical matchups between the two teams in major tournaments reveal a stark difference in performance, with the USA leading the record 33-1-1. The last six competitive encounters resulted in dominant wins for the USA, highlighting a consistent margin of victory around four goals. This disparity poses a daunting challenge for the Finnish team as they seek to defy expectations and possibly achieve an upset.

Given these circumstances, today's match is not just a matter of competition but also a test of resilience for the Naisleijonat. Despite the odds stacked against them, the team will need to rally together and leverage any advantages they may have. Their performance could inspire a renewed sense of hope and support for women's ice hockey in Finland, representing not only the spirit of competition but also the ability to overcome challenges in the face of adversity.