World champion and four-time Finnish champion Janne Pesonen is the team manager of the under-20 national team.
Finland has won two games and lost two in the under-20 World Cup. On Tuesday, the team will face Slovakia in the quarter-finals already at 12 o’clock local time, i.e. at 1 p.m. Finnish time. PDO
41 years old Janne Pesonen is also the KHL champion. Kuhmon brought a lot of important things to the team with his experience.
He describes Sweden’s surprise defeat as a battle victory.
– The victory was an indication of the spirit. Such a big win brings the right kind of relaxation and liberation to the group, joy as well.
– Every guy got experiences from that that they haven’t had before. These are great moments. They unite and strengthen the team even more, says Pesonen.
Not always like this
Over the years, Finland has often left similar games as a loser. Now there was a sweet victory in front of a sold-out Swedish stand – after an even more special game and only after the winning shot contest.
Finland does not often offer its supporters similar candy.
– Emotions are difficult to control in these places. These give players a lot to look forward to. Not only for this tournament, but also for the whole career. For many, it was the biggest game of their career so far, Pesonen reminds.
Stop
Janne Pesonen, who works as the team manager of the Young Lions, won a lot in his active career. Through his experience, the man is able to support young players in many matters. TIMO KUNNARI
Finland played four games in the preliminary series. The team lost two matches and won two.
Only Germany’s game was weak from the team. Since then, the team has won Latvia and Sweden.
– After the defeat against Germany, we stopped and collected our thoughts. The situation calmed down a bit. The team’s development curve is right. You can see the results, “Pessi”, who ended his career in the spring of 2020, thinks.
Cut it out
On Tuesday, the Young Lions will face Slovakia. Junior players have a new opportunity ahead. There is an excellent seam for the semi-finals.
– These are the legendary one-to-one games. The tournament ends with a loss. Everyone knows what the story is about. I myself have been in that situation many times.
Previous experiences, such as the great Sweden game, help in tight spots.
– However, it is not a larger-than-life game. You have to remember that. We have a chance to grow as a team again. It requires the growth of each individual as well.
Early wake up
Finland meets Slovakia in the Frölundaborg hall already at 12 o’clock local time.
– Ice hockey games are rarely played at this time. After all, it’s a different start time. Of course, we have also played afternoon games.
– This must be taken into account when preparing. The wake-up call is at least five hours before the game, team manager Pesonen says.