Nu är det dags.
It is finally here.
The semifinals.
Sweden vs. Finland
I don’t remember many hockey games from before 2008. But, one game that will always remain a part of my memory is the 2006 Olympic Gold Medal game between Sweden and Finland.
After an early goal by the Finns, Henrik Zetterberg and Niklas Kronwall each scored one goal to give Sweden the lead. 2 minutes after Kronwall’s goal, the Finns tied the game up again after a goal by Ville Peltonen.
And then Lidström happened. 10 seconds into the third period, Lidström blasted a rocket past Niittymäki to give Sweden the 3-2 lead.
The score would remain the same and Sweden would win gold.
The excitement that I experienced from winning gold that year has probably only been paralleled once in my life. Which was when Landon Donovan scored against Algeria in the 2010 World Cup.
Today’s game may not be a final as the one all those years ago, but the stakes are the same.
Win, and you will advance to the final battle for gold. Lose, and you will have to settle for the bronze match.
While I am obviously biased in my prediction for this game, I do truly believe that Sweden will win. Unlike Russia, Sweden doesn’t have goaltending issues, nor does it lack depth. The Finn’s winning formula against Russia will not apply to Sweden.
It’s going to be a great, nerve-racking game.
So sit back, enjoy, and Heja Sverige!
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