today 16:45
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Our semi-final opponent, Finland, continues in a sovereign tournament. Suomi also won the tournament for the fourth time yesterday, when they didn’t give the Swiss a chance in the quarterfinals and won 5: 1. The interview was given to us by defender Atte Ohtama, who is one of the captain’s assistants.
I am not surprised by Slafkovsky’s great performances
What made your clear win over Switzerland?
“We played very patiently. We were waiting for the opponent’s mistakes, which we managed to punish. It was a balanced match, the score does not correspond to that. We were simply more efficient. In addition, the goalkeeper Harri Säteri caught us well. ”
Did it help your team that you had an extra day off?
“It simply came to our notice then. Enough matches are played in a short time. It’s always nice when you can relax. We had enough energy. Both teams skated well and it was probably important at key moments that the Swiss had a match with the Czech Republic from the previous day. ”
Slovakia is waiting for you in the semifinals. Did it surprise you that you and the Swedes clearly won with them at the beginning of the tournament?
“No, I was not surprised. It’s a short tournament. Everyone knows the system, you have to play your best matches in the playoffs. Only good teams remained in Beijing. Everyone who has advanced to the semifinals has a chance of a title. ”
The Slovaks last defeated Finland in a big tournament in 2004 at the World Championships in the Czech Republic. What is it that suits you as an opponent?
“I don’t think the Slovaks would suit us. They have a quality team, so they are also in the semifinals. It can be a close goal match. We have good statistics from mutual matches, but history means nothing. ”
Juraj Slafkovský scored two goals for you, he has five in the tournament in five matches. Did that surprise you?
“No, it’s not surprising. He is young, but I have played against him many times in Liige, Finland. He is a great talent and a great player who improves with every match. He has an excellent career ahead of him. ”
You and Patrik Rybár passed in Kärpate Oulu. What do you say to his performances?
“Patrik is a great goalkeeper, he also does not surprise me how he is doing. I know he fished great in Kärpat. ”