The article from Iltalehti critiques the performance of Finnish athletes at the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics, using a traditional grading scale termed 'Leijonat & lampaat' (Lions & Sheep) to classify their performances. The evaluation highlights various athletes, discussing their successes and failures, as well as the overall sentiment of disappointment surrounding the final results. While some athletes earned high marks, others faced harsh criticism, reflecting the high expectations placed on representatives of Finnish sports on an international stage.

The Winter Olympics, a prestigious event, is not just a platform for competition but also a source of national pride for Finland, where sports enthusiasts closely follow the performances of their country's athletes. The article mentions specific athletes with notable performances and controversies, including Kalle Palander's pivotal moment and Iivo Niskanen's conduct. Additionally, it touches upon shocking revelations from Janne Ahonen regarding events in Torino, which further adds to the narrative of the challenges faced by Finnish athletes.

In conclusion, while there were high points in the form of 'Leijonat' among Finnish athletes, the overall reflection seems to indicate a need for reassessment and improvement in preparation and performance at such key international events. The article captures both the hopes and despair of Finnish supporters, showcasing the fine line between expectation and reality in competitive sports.