On Friday, Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo attended the men's ice hockey match between Finland and Sweden in Milan, witnessing a strong start for the Finnish team. Their first goal, scored by Nikolas Matinpalon, came in the eighth minute of the game, leading to an enthusiastic celebration from Orpo in the stands. The atmosphere was charged as fans and dignitaries reacted to the promising start of the match.

As the game progressed, Finland maintained its momentum, leading 3-1 at the end of the second period. The performance of the Finnish national team, known as the ‘Leijonat’ (the Lions), highlighted their competitive spirit and skill on the ice, underlining the significance of this match in the context of international competition and the upcoming Olympics.

Yle Uutiset will continue to follow the match and other Olympic events, emphasizing the importance of national pride in sporting events. The Prime Minister's presence not only showcased support for the athletes but also reflected Finland's broader passion for ice hockey as a key part of national identity.