2025 World Junior Championship: Finland Secures Victory in Final Round Robin Game

Photo Credit: Katie LeBoutillier (Inside The Rink)

Finland closed their round-robin stage with a 3-0 victory over Latvia, securing a likely second-place finish in the standings. The game was marked by Finland’s balanced offense, strong defensive play, and standout performances from Player of the Game, Konsta Helenius.

Related: Finland Snaps Team USA’s Streak in an Overtime Classic

The opening period saw Finland set the tone with crisp passing and relentless pressure. At 7:05, Benjamin Rautiainen broke the deadlock, scoring the game’s first goal off assists from Konsta Helenius and Veeti Väisänen. Helenius, whose creativity and puck control were fully displayed throughout the game, was crucial in generating offensive opportunities for Finland.

The second period continued Finland’s dominance, with Jesse Kiiskinen doubling the lead at 27:06. Assisted by Daniel Nieminen and Heikki Ruohonen, Kiiskinen’s goal was a testament to Finland’s depth and ability to capitalize on turnovers.

Latvia’s Mateiko, meanwhile, remained active, creating offensive opportunities and testing Finnish goaltender Petteri Rimpinen with quick shots and smart positioning.

Despite Mateiko’s efforts, Latvia struggled with penalties, including a key hooking call on Krisjanis Sarts at 24:36, which hindered their ability to generate momentum.

Finland put the game out of reach early in the third period with a power-play goal at 42:05. Kasper Halttunen capitalized on a tripping penalty against Latvia, scoring off assists from Aron Kiviharju and Benjamin Rautiainen. The goal highlighted Finland’s ability to execute under pressure and sealed their dominant performance.

Mateiko continued to lead Latvia’s offensive efforts in the final period, driving the puck into Finland’s zone and creating opportunities, but Finland’s strong defensive structure ultimately stymied Latvia’s chances.

Konsta Helenius earned Player of the Game honours for Finland thanks to his impactful playmaking and leadership throughout the game. His assistance with the opening goal set the tone, and his consistent effort was pivotal to Finland’s success.

For Latvia, Eriks Mateiko was recognized for his relentless energy and offensive creativity. Despite the team’s struggles, Mateiko stood out with his ability to challenge Finland’s defense and generate scoring opportunities.

Up Next:

With their second-place finish in Group A, Finland is set to play the loser of the Czechia vs. Sweden game in the quarterfinals. However, if the USA vs. Canada game goes to overtime, the standings could shift, potentially altering Finland’s opponent.

Latvia’s fourth-place finish in Group A means they will face the top seed from Group B—a challenging prospect for the underdogs, but one they’ll face with determination and grit.

All four quarterfinal matchups will be on January 2nd, 2025.

ITR 47: Then There Was Nothing Inside The Rink

Join Conrad and Chris as the discuss Gavin McKenna making the jump to the NCAA, Pittsburgh and San Jose making additions, and the NHL season to begin on October 7, 2025.
  1. ITR 47: Then There Was Nothing
  2. ITR 46: Offseason Chaos
  3. ITR 45: Everything Is Happening
  4. ITR 44: We Have A Champion…Again
  5. ITR 43: It's Winning Time

Discover more from Inside The Rink

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Elisha Côté

Elisha Côté is a Media Production and Design student at Carleton University and a passionate sports fan. She mainly covers the Ottawa Charge of the PWHL.

One thought on “2025 World Junior Championship: Finland Secures Victory in Final Round Robin Game”

Leave a Reply

Winnipeg Jets Re-Sign Gabriel Vilardi and Parker Ford

The Winnipeg Jets have re-signed forwards Gabriel Vilardi and Parker Ford to contract extensions today. Ford received a two-year, two-way contract worth $775,000 in year one and $850,000 in year two, per Ken Wiebe of the Winnipeg Free Press. Vilardi received a six-year contract worth $7.5 million annually, avoiding salary arbitration days before the hearing. […]

Read More
Utah Mammoth Extend AHL All-Star

Utah Mammoth Extend AHL All-Star

The Utah Mammoth announced they’ve extended an AHL All-Star to a two-year, two-way contract.

Read More
Jaroslav Halak in net for the Boston Bruins

Jaroslav Halák Announces Retirement

Goaltender Jaroslav Halák has announced his retirement after 17 seasons in the NHL. Halák last played during the 2022-23 season playing in 25 games for the New York Rangers while putting up a 10-9-5 record with a 2.72 GAA, .903SV%, and one shutout. Jaroslav Halák began his career with the Montreal Canadiens after they drafted […]

Read More