Finland secured its fifth ice hockey world championship title Sunday by defeating host nation Switzerland 1-0 in an overtime thriller held in Zurich. The game-winning goal came from 20-year-old Konsta Helenius of the Buffalo Sabres, who scored 10 minutes and 42 seconds into the extra period. Helenius shot from the right circle, beating Switzerland’s goaltender Leonardo Genoni after Finland registered its 28th shot on goal. Finnish goalie Justus Annunen was credited with a shutout, making 22 saves in the tightly contested final.

This championship marks Finland’s first medal since their previous title in 2022, adding to their earlier victories in 1995, 2011, and 2019. Despite entering the final as runners-up in their preliminary group, behind Switzerland, Finland overcame strong opponents in the knockout rounds, including a quarterfinal victory over the Czech Republic and a semifinal upset against tournament favorite Canada.

Switzerland, appearing in their home country, was unable to capitalize on a crucial two-minute, 5-on-3 power play that began just seconds before the end of the first period. Forward Denis Malgin expressed disappointment but noted the unpredictable nature of overtime hockey, stating that the game was scoreless and could have gone either way.

The final was a rematch of a group stage game where Switzerland had emerged victorious 4-2—the only loss Finland suffered during the tournament. In the battle for third place, Norway made history by claiming its first-ever world championship medal with a 3-2 overtime victory over Canada. Noah Steen scored the winning goal just over three minutes into the extra period. Norway’s previous best finish at the world championships was fourth place in 1951.

Canada rallied late in the bronze medal game after falling behind 2-0, pulling goaltender Jet Greaves to add offense. Robert Thomas scored an unassisted goal and later tied the game with 8 seconds remaining in regulation, assisted by captain Macklin Celebrini and Ryan O’Reilly, pushing the contest into overtime where Norway ultimately prevailed.

Finnish defenseman Olli Maatta highlighted the team’s cohesive approach, attributing their success to a strong team culture and collective effort. The championship solidifies Finland’s status among the top nations in international ice hockey, while Switzerland and Norway also delivered notable performances on home ice and in historic fashion, respectively.