During the Olympic ice hockey tournament, teams have surprised fans with unexpected performances, especially from the SM-liiga players. On the opening day, Italy held an unexpected lead against Sweden, showcasing determination despite being seen as underdogs. The first day of competition also saw France shocking the Czech Republic in a match within group A, where they came back from a 2-0 deficit by scoring three quick goals at the start of the second period, which momentarily silenced the arena.

Key moments included NHL star David Pastrnak scoring to level the game after France's quick succession of goals caused uncertainty and hesitation among the Czech players. France's performance highlighted the potential for upsets in the tournament, exemplifying how critical mistakes could change the game's momentum. A significant miscommunication during a power play led to a breakaway by the Czech team, underlining the high stakes and pressures involved in Olympic play.

The implications of such surprising outcomes are profound, reflecting the changing dynamics in international ice hockey, where no team can be underestimated. The reactions from players and fans alike highlight the unpredictability of sports competitions at this elite level. With the Olympics being a stage for showcasing emerging talents, the SM-liiga's representation has proven that they can indeed compete successfully against traditionally stronger teams.