Nathan MacKinnon scored with 35.2 seconds remaining in regulation, completing a dramatic comeback for Canada over Finland in the Olympic semifinal Friday night in Milan. The 3-2 victory sends Canada to the gold medal game, where they will face the winner of the United States-Slovakia semifinal.
Finland jumped to an early lead, capitalizing on a power play with a goal from Mikko Rantanen late in the first period. Erik Haula extended the Finnish advantage with a shorthanded goal in the second, putting Canada in a precarious position. Still, the Canadian offense responded, beginning with a goal from Sam Reinhart, deflecting a shot from Cale Makar. Shea Theodore then tied the game midway through the third period with a powerful shot from the point.
The winning goal came on a power play, orchestrated by a perfect saucer pass from Connor McDavid to MacKinnon. The play was initially reviewed by Finnish officials who challenged for offside, but the goal stood after video review. MacKinnon, the NHL’s leading goal scorer, found the back of the net with a shot short side, assisted by Macklin Celebrini who provided a screen in front of the net.
Canada was without its captain, Sidney Crosby, due to injury, with Connor McDavid wearing the “C” in his absence. Goaltender Juuse Saros of Finland made several key saves throughout the game, including a denial of MacKinnon moments before the winning goal, but ultimately could not hold off the Canadian surge. Canada outshot Finland 14-3 in the second period and continued to press in the third, ultimately tilting the ice in their favor.
Finland will now compete in the bronze medal game on Saturday. The gold medal game between Canada and either the United States or Slovakia is scheduled for Sunday. The United States and Slovakia were scheduled to play their semifinal game later Friday evening, with the winner advancing to face Canada for the Olympic title.
