In a recent ice hockey match between Finland and Sweden, Finnish captain Mikael Granlund made headlines with his fierce tackle against Swedish star Elias Pettersson. Granlund, who plays for the NHL's Nashville Predators, demonstrated his physical prowess by sending the notably larger Pettersson towards the Finnish bench. This moment particularly excited teammate Mikko Rantanen, who commented on Granlund's impressive ability to stand up to bigger players despite being shorter in stature himself.

Rantanen, also an NHL player, expressed his surprise and admiration for Granlund's play, highlighting that it was a great example of leadership. He noted that such physicality is essential when competing against strong teams like Sweden. The play not only showcased Granlund's capability but also set a tone for the game, as the Finnish team aimed to maintain a robust and aggressive style of play against their rivals.

Overall, Granlund's actions on the ice contributed to a strong performance by the Finnish team, with Rantanen stressing the need for a physical and irritating style of play to overcome formidable opponents. This match and Granlund's standout moment could be pivotal in laying the groundwork for future competitions, especially as Finland seeks to establish itself as a powerhouse in international hockey.