Photo Credit: Katie LeBoutillier (Inside The Rink)
Finland defeated Denmark 6-2 in their first matchup at the 2026 World Junior Championship in Minnesota. Four Finland players posted multi-point goals, and Roope Vesterinen was the lone player to record a two-goal game.
Denmark received an even scoring slate, a mark that wasn’t expected heading into this lopsided matchup. William Bundgaard and Anton Linde scored the two goals for the Danes.
Related:Â Guide to the 2026 World Junior Championship
Denmark Was Outmatched, but Still Fought Against a Powerhouse
Denmark wasn’t expected to score a goal against Finland in their matchup against a medal favorite. However, 6:08 into the game, William Bundgaard scored the Danes first goal of the 2026 World Junior Championship.
While Finland continued to find the back of the net and led 6-1 after two periods, Denmark still pushed back and got themselves into a rhythm.
Anton Linde scored Denmark’s second goal on the power play 2:22 into the third period. It was the final goal scored of the game, and Denmark has a lot to build on after they faired off fairly well against Finland.
Denmark Might Have a Diamond in the Rough in Net
Denmark’s goaltender, Anton Emil Wilde Larsen, was the reason they didn’t get the score racked up into double digits. He made big saves against all of Finland’s top players, and he’ll look to carry that over into the remainder of the tournament as Denmark looks to avoid relegation.
If Larsen can continue to have a strong tournament for the Danes, and if they avoid relegation, Larsen could find himself drafted to an NHL team in the 2026 NHL Entry Draft. The 6-foot-3 goaltender is considered a hybrid style player and has played in Denmark since growing up.
Roope Vesterinen a Clear Standout Early for Finland
Roope Vesterinen came into this tournament as an underdog for Finland’s goal scoring. In 10 international games this season, he’s scored six goals. The speedy winger primarily scores off the rush, and he’s complimented by the fact that he can jet into the hashmarks without issue and find scoring chances.
Vesterinen is eligible for the 2026 NHL Entry Draft, and he’ll look to continue a strong tournament for Finland to raise his draft stock.
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