The Finnish hockey team, known as Leijonat, resumed practice in Milan after a day off, preparing for their quarterfinal match against either Switzerland or Italy. However, the team faced concerns with player absences, particularly that of Mikael Granlund, who was reported to be feeling unwell, and Anton Lundell, who had already been ruled out due to illness. The situation has become worrisome given that Team Finland has been experiencing issues related to a potential norovirus outbreak that affected the accommodations of their female counterparts at the Olympics.

While Granlund's condition is troubling, it's worth noting that he is the only player in the Finnish squad who has a private room in the Olympic village, likely aiding in isolation and recovery. The ongoing health concerns have led the head coach, Antti Pennanen, to remain cautious, refraining from making comments about the possible connection between the unexplained absences and the norovirus. The team must now navigate these challenges as they move closer to their critical quarterfinal matchup.

The implications of these absences could significantly impact Finland's performance in the upcoming games as they head into the knockout stage of the competition. The team's ability to handle not just their physical game but also the mental toll of rallying against health issues will be crucial for their Olympic aspirations. As they gear up to compete, the Finnish hockey community and fans alike remain hopeful for a quick recovery for their star players and a successful run in the tournament.