Canada pulled off an impressive comeback to beat Finland 3-2 in the semifinal of the Olympic Winter Games 2026. Early in the second period, things looked so grim for Canada when Finland took a 2-0 lead with Erik Haula’s goal. But things changed once Canada shifted gears and scored three unanswered goals to survive the Semifinals.
The win sent Canada to the gold medal game against the United States, making it their third straight trip to the final in the Olympics featuring NHL players. Even without Sidney Crosby, the Canadians showed patience and focus to turn the game around.
Jon Cooper Jokes About Juuse Saros After Semifinal Loss
Canada head coach Jon Cooper made a light jab at Finland goalie Juuse Saros during a media interview. Speaking to Sports TV host Julie Stewart-Binks, Cooper asked, “What’s his commercial?… no goals,” referring to Saros, the Nashville Predators goaltender.
Saros was featured in a MassMutual commercial titled “No Goals,” in which he was sitting in the locker room. In the video, he repeatedly answers “No goals” to several questions, a subtle hint that he is focused on allowing no goals in games.
Saros has been strong in the tournament, with a 1.80 goals-against average and a .938 save percentage, including 36 saves against Canada in the semifinal.
Before the semifinal, Saros had been exceptional, posting a 1.34 goals-against average and a .946 save percentage in three preliminary games. His performance helped Finland finish fourth in the group stage and earn a bye into the quarterfinals.
Despite Cooper’s joke, Saros kept Finland in the game till late in the third period. He was a major reason they were competitive against Canada.
Saros also addressed an early play when Sam Bennett made contact in the crease at 16:52 of the first period. Speaking to Sportsnet reporter Luke Fox, Saros said, “I mean, he does that all the time. So, it’s part of his game. You guys have seen him multiple times, so I think you know.”
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The Finnish goalie stayed focused after the play and continued to stop shots throughout the game.
On the Canadian side, Connor McDavid contributed with two assists, including the primary setup for MacKinnon’s late goal. Cale Makar and Macklin Celebrini also created key chances that helped Canada regain the lead. Even without Crosby, who was out with a lower-body injury, the team managed to control the puck and apply pressure in critical moments.
Finland could not match Canada’s final push, and their path now moves to the bronze medal game against Slovakia. Canada now focuses on the gold medal matchup with the United States.
