Finland Wins Ice Hockey World Championship; Helsinki Erupts in Celebration

Central News Agency, Helsinki, June 1. The Finnish men's national ice hockey team defeated host Switzerland 1-0 in overtime early this morning to claim their fifth world championship title. Thousands of fans flocked to Helsinki's Market Square, turning the streets into a carnival-like atmosphere as the nation celebrated its first world title in four years. According to Yle, the Finnish 'Lions' (Leijonat) won the gold medal in Zurich on May 31. After a scoreless regulation, forward Konsta Helenius scored the winning goal in overtime. Captain Aleksander Barkov lifted the trophy, while goaltender Justus Annunen made 22 saves for his first shutout in a senior world championship final. The victory was a comeback, as Finland had lost 4-2 to Switzerland in the group stage. They defeated Canada 4-2 in the semifinals to reach the final. Within 10 minutes of the final whistle, crowds gathered around the 'Havis Amanda' fountain in Helsinki. The statue, nicknamed 'Manta,' is a cultural landmark where citizens traditionally celebrate by jumping into the fountain. The city had installed protective covers around the statue in advance. The celebration peaked after midnight, with police estimating thousands in the square, leading to traffic closures. Police confiscated fireworks and managed crowds climbing on bus shelters until dawn. Defender Olli Määttä noted the significance of the win for the Finnish spirit. Finland previously won the world title in 2022, 2019, 2011, and 1995, and also secured their first Olympic gold in 2022.