As the hockey tournament in Milanon approaches its culmination, only four teams remain, creating an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation. The situation is significant for the hockey manager, as the upcoming semi-finals and medal matches represent crucial points for teams, with a total of four matches left in the tournament. On Friday, the semi-finals will see Canada face Finland, and the USA will take on Slovakia, each team assured a minimum of two more games following early week rounds where the stakes were lower.

The schedule for the tournament includes semi-finals on Friday, followed by a bronze match on Saturday and a final on Sunday. This structure means that each of the four remaining teams must prepare not only for the immediate challenges but also for the potential of competing for medals over the weekend. Importantly, no player will be eliminated from the tournament with losses in these matches, which adds a layer of intensity and strategy as teams aim for victory.

In terms of logistics, managers need to be aware of player swaps for the upcoming matches, with the deadline set for 17:40 on Friday before the first semi-final. Each team has the opportunity to make free player changes, though additional swaps incur penalties. This strategic aspect adds another dimension of complexity to the tournament as teams utilize their rosters in pursuit of championship glory.