After a dramatic pathway to the Olympic semifinals, the Finnish national hockey team, known as the Lions, returned to the ice on Thursday morning in Milan. Head coach Antti Pennanen extensively mixed the team's lines after their quarterfinal match on Wednesday night. The new first line, which significantly influenced the game's crucial moments, features Artturi Lehkonen, Sebastian Aho, and Mikko Rantanen, who also practiced together on Thursday. The changes signal a strategic approach to improve the team's performance ahead of their next challenge.

In the third period of the quarterfinal match against Switzerland, the Lions streamlined their player rotations. Notably, the newly formed first line was utilized heavily, while Teuvo Teräväinen and Eeli Tolvanen faced reduced playing time. However, Teräväinen joined Mikael Granlund and Roope Hintz in the second line for Thursday's practice, indicating a continuing strategy to optimize player effectiveness. These adjustments reflect an adaptability and willingness to change tactics as the competition intensifies.

The Lions are set to face Canada in the Olympic semifinals on Friday at 17:40. This match is poised to be a crucial encounter, with another semifinal featuring the USA against Slovakia scheduled for later the same day. The changes in lines and strategies not only highlight the importance of the upcoming match but also demonstrate the team's determination to advance further in the Olympic tournament, aiming to secure a medal for Finland.