Finland's national ice hockey team, known as the Leijonat, showcased a remarkable performance by defeating Italy 11-0 on the Olympic ice in Milan. This victory marked a new Olympic record for the most shots on goal in a match, with the Leijonat firing an astonishing 62 shots. This overwhelming score not only secured a decisive win but also allowed Finland to advance directly to the quarter-finals as the best runner-up from their group.

Mikko Rantanen, one of Finland's star forwards, noted that he had never participated in such a one-sided game during his career, including more than 800 NHL games. Rantanen highlighted the intensity of the game, pointing out the sheer volume of shots taken by the Leijonat, which was unprecedented in his experience. While he recalled another high-scoring game against South Korea during the 2018 World Championship, he emphasized that Saturday's match was even more extraordinary in terms of opportunities created and executed by the Finnish team.

The Finnish team's performance against Italy under the guidance of coach Jukka Jalonen was marked by strategic plays and consistent offensive pressure. The Leijonat utilized every opportunity to score, and their relentless pursuit resulted in a historic win that signals their strong capabilities as they compete further in the tournament. With such a commanding victory, Finland not only showcases its talent but also sends a strong message to its competitors about their potential in the upcoming matches.