Artturi Lehkonen plays the role of hero (twice) for Team Finland at the Olympics – Denver Sports
The eight members of the Colorado Avalanche who are in Italy for the Olympics continue to shine during the men’s ice hockey action. On Wednesday afternoon, it was Artturi Lehkonen’s turn to be the star.
In a quarterfinal matchup against Switzerland, his Finland team was on the ropes. But with just 1:12 to play in regulation, Lehkonen found the back of the net to tie the game at 2-2. The goal ultimately forced overtime in the win-or-go-home showdown.
In the three-on-three extra period, the forward once again rose to the occasion. A little over three minutes into overtime, Lehkonen beat Swiss goaltender Leonardo Genoni on a breakaway.
Pandemonium ensued. Finland is advancing. They’ll play Canada in the semifinals if the United States beats Sweden this afternoon. If the Swedes pull the upset, the Fins will face Slovakia.
Switzerland was 72 seconds away from advancing. In the span of four-and-a-half minutes, however, Artturi Lehkonen spoil their party.
The Avs star saved his team in regulation. Then, he won it in overtime.
It was a heart-stopping moment in the Olympic Games, with one of the Avalanche players on centerstage once again.
