On a seemingly ordinary Friday afternoon at 12:30 PM, the Old Irish Pub on Mannerheimintie in Helsinki is buzzing with patrons, most of whom have a pint of beer in front of them. The reason for this unusual midday gathering is displayed on screens around the bar: the preview of the Olympic hockey match between Finland and Sweden is set to begin in just half an hour. Many customers have reserved a table in front of the biggest screen, indicating that this event has been on their radar for some time.

One customer, Marko, shares that he has been looking forward to this match for a while. Although the match is during traditional working hours, it hasn't deterred fans from enjoying their time at the pub; some have taken time off work, while others are on vacation. There is even a mix of customers, including retirees, who are there to watch the game. Marko mentions that he took a little afternoon off work, having informed his employer in advance. Working at a Swedish bank, he acknowledges that such games are equally popular among his colleagues, and discussions beforehand led to a consensus to ease the Friday schedule a bit due to the match.

This informal gathering reflects the cultural significance of hockey matches between Finland and Sweden, particularly during the Olympics, showcasing how sports can bring together people from different walks of life, blurring the lines between work and personal time. As customers cheer for their teams, the atmosphere is charged with excitement, highlighting local traditions where sporting events are celebrated as communal experiences.