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Jukka Jalonen believes in the Lions’ chances against the USA. <\/span>AOP<\/span><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n Looking ahead to the quarterfinals, Jalonen believes Finland\u2019s starting position against the United States is advantageous. A victory would propel Finland into the medal rounds, while a loss would mark the end of the tournament for the players. \u201cOne significant advantage for Finland is that the team has managed to stay in Stockholm. The Americans, having just traveled from Denmark, faced a long transition that could hinder their performance,\u201d Jalonen noted.<\/p>\n He explained that the American team would not be able to practice properly on Wednesday, as their travel schedule would disrupt their preparation. \u201cThe game is scheduled for 16:20 local time, so they won’t have ample time to practice on the ice even on the morning of the game,\u201d he added, reflecting on the challenges that the USA team might face.<\/p>\n In their last preliminary match, the United States defeated the Czech Republic with a score of 5\u20132. \u201cIn that game, the Americans played exceptionally well. They had over 50 shots on goal, which took me by surprise,\u201d Jalonen expressed, acknowledging the competitive nature of the upcoming match. \u201cIt\u2019s going to be a tight game. Out of all the available teams, I would have preferred to face the USA, if given the choice,\u201d he affirmed. Historically, the USA has not won the men\u2019s championship since the “sweater era” in 1933.<\/p>\n Juuse Saros has been Finland’s top player in the World Championship so far. <\/span>Pasi Liesimaa<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n Throughout the first seven matches, Finland has demonstrated impressive defensive skills, allowing only a few goals against them. \u201cWith just ten goals conceded in seven games, that\u2019s absolutely remarkable. If this trend continues, Finland will win gold. Averaging 1.34 goals against per game puts us in a strong position,\u201d Jalonen asserted confidently.<\/p>\n At 62 years old, Jalonen is currently coaching the Italian national team. In his first season, he successfully elevated the **Azzurri** to the A division, ensuring their participation in next spring\u2019s World Championships. However, his primary focus remains on Italy’s significant aspiration of making a mark at next winter’s home Olympics in Milan.<\/p>\nDefensive Strength and Juuse Saros<\/h3>\n
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