OTTAWA — The penultimate day at the 2025 World Juniors saw USA and Finland advance to Sunday’s gold medal game, setting up a rematch after the Finns beat the Americans in overtime in group play. USA Hockey will look to make history and win their first-ever back-to-back golds. The Finns will have a chance to win their sixth gold medal, which would tie them with the United States for third all-time.
Here are The Athletic’s prospects writers Corey Pronman’s and Scott Wheeler’s semifinal standouts and analysis.
• Finland defeated Sweden 4-3 in overtime. Sabres first-rounder Konsta Helenius had assists on all four Finnish goals. Draft-eligible forward Benjamin Rautiainen scored the overtime winner. Blues prospect Otto Stenberg had two goals for Sweden. Finnish goaltender Petteri Rimpinen made 43 saves.
• USA defeated Czechia 4-1. Islanders first-rounder Cole Eiserman scored the game-winner. Red Wings goalie prospect Trey Augustine stopped 26 of 27 shots for the Americans. Gabe Perreault (NY Rangers) and Ryan Leonard (Washington) each had two points (one goal, one assist apiece).
Eiserman making most of unconventional role
There has always been a lot of talk about the Islanders’ first-rounder. He’s a unique cat with a one-of-one play style and one-shot goal-scoring punch. After starting this year’s tournament on Team USA’s quote-unquote second line, he was moved to the 13th forward role against Canada on New Year’s Eve and has played limited minutes. I’ve…
