The road to the gold medal at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship reaches its most intense stage on Sunday, January 4, as four nations battle in the semifinals. One of international hockey’s fiercest rivalries takes center stage when Finland faces Sweden, while Canada and Czechia collide in the other semifinal in a matchup that has quickly grown into must-watch drama.
WATCH: Sweden vs Finland Semifinal at 2026 WJC
With medal dreams on the line, every shift will matter as the world’s best under-20 players skate for a place in the championship game.
Finland vs Sweden Preview
Finland punched its ticket to the semifinals in dramatic fashion, edging Team USA 4–3 in overtime in one of the most entertaining quarterfinals of the tournament. The Finns weathered constant pressure from the Americans and showed impressive composure in a game filled with momentum swings.
WATCH: Sweden vs Finland Semifinal at 2026 WJC
After trading goals throughout regulation, it was Arttu Valila who played the hero, scoring just two minutes into overtime to keep Finland’s gold medal hopes alive. The Finnish attack was balanced and timely, with goals coming from Valila, Leo Tuuva, Heikki Ruohonen, and Joona Saarelainen. Each response to a U.S. push showcased Finland’s resilience and belief in high-pressure moments.
That calm under pressure has become a hallmark of Finnish junior teams, and it could prove crucial against a skilled and disciplined Swedish squad.
Sweden Marches On, Eyes Revenge
Sweden enters the semifinals riding strong momentum after a convincing quarterfinal victory over Latvia. Alongside Canada, the Swedes remain undefeated at this year’s tournament, combining elite puck possession with structured defense and depth scoring.
Sunday’s matchup also carries an emotional edge. At last year’s World Juniors, Finland eliminated Sweden in overtime, thanks to Benjamin Rautiainen’s golden goal that sent the Finns to the gold medal game. That loss still lingers, and this semifinal presents Sweden with a chance at redemption on one of the biggest stages in junior hockey.
With disciplined special teams, sharp goaltending, and a roster filled with NHL prospects, Sweden believes this could be the year they finish the job.
Finland vs. Sweden: What to Watch For
This matchup promises a classic contrast in styles. Finland’s ability to capitalize on mistakes and stay composed late in games will be tested against Sweden’s relentless puck movement and defensive structure. Goaltending could be the deciding factor, especially if the game tightens up as expected.
With a place in the gold medal game on the line, expect physical play, cautious starts, and explosive moments from the tournament’s brightest young stars.
Where to watch the World Juniors Hockey Semifinals
Fans won’t want to miss a second of the action as the World Juniors reach crunch time.
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TV Channel: NHL Network
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Live Stream:
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Fubo (free trial available for new subscribers)
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Sling TV
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- WATCH: Sweden vs Finland Semifinal at 2026 WJC
