Day 5 saw the first day of play-offs at the 2024 Men’s World Floorball Championships and we got to experience lots of action both in Malmö Arena and Baltic Hall. 

Germany v Poland

3,249 spectators witnessed the fastest goal of the 2024 WFC. Three seconds. That’s all it took for Adam Lundgren, who received the ball directly after the face-off and broke the scoreline.

The Germans raised the tempo and controlled the game. In their offensive play, they showcased several great actions that led to a few clear scoring chances. The net would shake again halfway through the first period when Jakob Heins scored the second goal of the match on a counterattack. Eight seconds later, the goal spree continued. Florian Weisskirchen found Nils Hofferbert, who made it 3-0.

Germany continued to push forward. However, Poland should not be forgotten, as they contributed with a couple of scoring chances. The Polish goals, however, were absent at this point. Instead, Michel Wöcke extended Germany’s lead with a long-range shot. Germany thus had a comfortable grip on the match as the first period came to a close.

In the second period, Germany came out with continued hunger for goals. Just under three minutes into the period, the Germans put together a beautiful combination play, with Janos Bröker being the last to touch the ball and score an elegant goal.

After the fifth goal, the match took on a new character. The play became more back-and-forth, with both Germany and Poland creating dangerous chances. It was Germany who found the net again, with Philipp Wilbrand scoring while well-positioned in front of Polish goalkeeper Maciej Bogdanski.

As the final twenty minutes of the match began, the goal spree started again. Almost four minutes into the third period, the Germans celebrated once more. Jakob Heins made a cross-pass to the match’s first goal scorer, Adam Lundgren. With a sharp shot, Lundgren sent the ball into the net.

Two minutes later, it was Leo Hafner’s turn to get on the score sheet, and for the first time in the tournament. The score was 8-0, which seemed to ignite Poland. Mateusz Sadolewski scored a beautiful solo goal after making his way from his own half. Just over two minutes later, Poland found energy again, as Lucas Dahlström assisted Ludvig Wu, who scored Poland’s second goal.

Germany, however, would have the final word. A power break got the team back in motion, and just eight seconds after Poland’s goal, the score was 9-2 after Vincent Jordan found the net. Nine minutes later, the crowd cheered one last time. Germany was in the attacking zone when Poland tried to clear the ball. The Germans got hold of the ball and Florian Weissbachner was able to play through Jonathan Heins who set the score at 10-2.

– I had good chances in yesterday’s game, so I felt I needed to do it today. I was really pumped up, said Germany’s ‘Man of the Match’ Adam Lundgren after the game.

In the quarterfinals, Germany will face Sweden. Poland will continue in a match for places 9-12. They will face either Estonia in a play-off match for places 9-12.

Slovenia v Canada

The first game of the day at the Baltic Hall was set to be an intense and thrilling encounter. Slovenia made their first WFC appearance since the format change in 2010, having previously played in the B-division of the championships before. Throughout the tournament, they’ve delivered entertaining and emotional performances, and when the national anthem starts, the players sing along with pride and passion. Canada, on the other hand, is more experienced in the championships, having finished 12th in the last two WFCs. This time, however, their best possible placement can be 13th place. With all of this in mind, the match promised to be special and memorable in many ways.

Less than a minute into the game, Slovenia showed exactly why they belong on the biggest stage in floorball, scoring the opening goal. The celebration that followed was grand as the goal scorer, Blaz Tomc, took a joyful lap around the arena, celebrating wildly. This celebration would set the tone for the atmosphere in the Baltic Hall. Shortly after, Canada had their chance to celebrate in front of the packed stands, equalizing at 1-1 with a well-placed shot from distance. After an impressive individual play from Slovenian Robi Kosir, who spun around his defender, a pass found Blaz Kohne, who made no mistake. But Canada wasn’t going to make it easy, quickly responding to Slovenia’s goal to tie the game 2-2, and later 3-2. These scores remained unchanged until the end of the period.

Slovenia’s box play became a true example of self-sacrifice. After a fantastic defensive effort, one of their players had the opportunity to race toward the Canadian goal. However, in a dramatic sequence, the player stumbled over the Canadian goalkeeper’s leg and was fouled. The referee signaled a penalty shot, and the arena, once full of noise and energy, fell silent for a moment. Canada’s goalkeeper, performing at an exceptional level, stood tall and made a magnificent save. The game continued to swing in all directions, with Slovenia shooting towards the goal at a furious pace. Finally, they were rewarded with the equalizer at 3-3. Just seconds later, Slovenia pressed forward again and scored, taking the lead. With about five minutes remaining, they added a fifth goal, leading 5-3, followed by a wild and passionate celebration. These scores would stand as the second period concluded.

The third period began, and now both teams had everything in their own hands. Slovenia got off to a dream start, beginning with a powerplay and quickly extending their lead to 6-3. With massive support from the crowd, they gathered enough energy to push for 7-3, which they succeeded in doing. Canada quickly responds, reducing the deficit to 7-4. However, Slovenia finally seals the deal with an 8-4 goal. These scores remain as the final whistle blows.

The result not only meant that Slovenia would secure their best-ever placement in the WFC but also marked their highest-scoring match, and first win, in the history of the championship. After the game, Slovenian goalkeeper Tim Luznar, visibly happy with the outcome, took the opportunity to reflect on the thrilling match and the goal moving forward.

– This is the first win ever as a team in this championship. In terms of the match itself, it means a lot because we are gonna fight for the 13th place, says Luznar. 

Latvia v Philippines

Latvia and the Philippines faced off in the play off. The Latvians went out to the match and controlled it from the start. They created several chances in the attacking half and after just under seven minutes of play Rolands Kovalevskis played through to Morics Krumins who made it 1-0. Latvia showed the way forward and just over two minutes later the goal cheer would be shouted out again. Jorens Malkavs managed to score the second goal of the match on his own. Minutes later, the leading scorer Krumins got another goal after a quick turnaround.

The Philippines had their chances to score and for that they were rewarded. A good understanding of the game allowed them to break up the Latvian attack and Alm Mendoza was then able to get up the attack and skillfully put it 3-1 when the match clock was at 14:25. Latvia replied shortly afterwards with a long-range shot from Janis Ragovskis that extended Latvia’s lead.

After the break it was Latvia who continued to lead the game. Jorens Malkavs found Jekabs Keiss who answered with a fifth goal for Latvia as the period approached its seventh minute. Latvia increased their offensive pressure and Karlis was able to skillfully intercept a clearance. One direct shot later the score was 6-1.

Latvia found good combinations in their play, which also resulted in more goals ahead. Before the second period was over, Ralf Matiss Balodis, Markus Dumpis and Morics Krumins had each scored a goal.

In the third period, it was the Philippines with their quick movements that were the first team to score. Fredrik Jepsson Escabel skillfully managed to escape a pressure and played the ball to Kim Varga Rosello who scored. 9-2 was the score when a minute and a half had been played.

Minutes later, when the match clock read 46:59, it was Karlins Stukan’s turn to be in the spotlight. The forward scored his second goal of the match, assisted by Artis Raitums.

The match was characterized by goals and the sixteenth goal would come when the time showed 48:57. The goal scorer? Once again Karlins Stukans. With just under six minutes left in the game, Klavs Jansons scored the last goal and the result was written to 14-3.

– It always feels good when you come to the World Championships and then you play at the highest level. It gives extra motivation and higher energy, said Latvia’s ‘Man of the Match’ Morics Krumins.

Latvia will face Switzerland in the quarterfinals. The Philippines will face Denmark in a match for places 9-12.

Australia v Thailand

When the faceoff for the second match of the day began in Baltiska Hallen, both teams got a taste of the atmosphere that awaited them. Despite both nations having long travels to reach the WFC in Malmö, they were supported by an enormous fanbase that did everything to cheer on their teams. This important match would leave no room for disappointment for the dedicated crowd.

With five minutes played, Thailand created a dream start, taking a 2-0 lead in the first period. In their pursuit of the best possible placement, they found themselves in a comfortable position. However, Australia had no intention of making it easy. When Thailand received a penalty, Australia seized the opportunity to play with the man advantage and made no mistake, scoring 2-1 right at the beginning of the powerplay. There was no time to waste, to say the least. Shortly after, Australia showed their determination and effectiveness once again, capitalizing on a counterattack to make it 2-2. After an eventful first period, the thrilling score stood at 2-2 as the teams went into the break.

The second period didn’t see the same early goals as in the first, even though chances were present. The momentum swung back and forth, and the two skilled goalkeepers played a decisive role in who would eventually take the lead. It didn’t take long before Australia made a strong statement, completing an impressive comeback by scoring both the 3-2 and 4-2 goals. That performance gave them a good starting point for the third period.

The third period developed into an intense duel where both teams showcased their running ability and impressive endurance. To make the drama even more intense, Thailand struck first, scoring to make it 4-3, and continued their tireless pursuit of victory. After the reduction, it seemed Thailand found a new, higher gear, pressing Australia hard in an attempt to win the ball high up the field. This resulted in several dangerous chances for Thailand, but to their great frustration, Australia’s goalkeeper was there to deny them all. The crowd, visibly tense, could feel the intensity as chances arose at both ends, with the match’s excitement seemingly having no end. When Thailand’s captain, Pawat Thaidit, stepped up and equalized to make it 4-4, the match exploded with tension. The audience was treated to an indescribably dramatic battle, where every second felt like an eternity.

The crowd certainly got a game to remember, which ultimately went into overtime. As the teams gathered to return to the pitch, a nervous silence fell over the usually loud spectators. Suddenly, as if time had stood still, Thailand’s Simon Johansson received the ball. He had only a moment to act, and with a precise shot, he sent the ball into the net, securing the win for his team. Thailand’s supporters erupted in uncontrolled celebration. Flags were waved, fans sang and cheered loudly, and it was impossible not to feel the electric atmosphere that filled the arena. Thailand had made an incredible comeback and put themselves in a strong position in the race for the championship placement. Thailand’s Alexander Rinefalk describes the match as something truly special.

– We always have tight games against Australia, it is usually just one goal that makes the difference. We really tried to stick to our game plan which secured the win today. 

Norway v Denmark

On Wednesday, the Scandinavian neighbors Norway and Denmark were set to face off, fighting for a place in thw quarter finals. Initially, the play was somewhat cautious, but when Denmark was penalized for rough play at 06:27, the match took an unexpected turn. Despite being one player short on the field, Denmark took their chance when it came and countered to make it 0-1. And they didn’t stop there. 43 seconds later, the Handgaard brothers would show off a beautiful collaboration and make 0-2.

In the second period, the match continued to be even. Both teams created a few dangerous chances, but thanks to excellent performances from both goalkeepers, Klungervik and Trolle, the score remained unchanged. In the 17th minute, Norway suddenly shifted gears and managed to reduce the deficit when Hamrin made a flip pass to Mossin Olesen, who put it into the net for 1-2. Shortly after, Norway was awarded a penalty shot, and thanks to Markus Lindgjerdet, the score was tied. But the Norweigans weren’t satisfied with just the equalizer; before the teams went to the break, Norway had also taken the lead. 

With momentum on their side, Norway started the third period with a power play, but the Danish defense managed to weather the storm. The match remained very close, with both teams constantly pushing forward. The clock started ticking down, and the intensity of the game increased. Despite several Danish attacks, they never quite managed to break through. Norway held off and eventually won the game 3-2. 

– We really showed that we want to fight for the country and for the team.  

Norway will now face Finland in the quarterfinals on Friday evening. 

Slovakia v Estonia

The match between Slovakia and Estonia was the last one of the day at Malmö Arena. The first period began with Slovakian pressure. The Slovaks played offensively, while the Estonians responded with quick counterattacks and capitalizing on Slovakia’s passing errors. The chances were there, but it was not until 10 minutes had passed that the first goal came. Slovakia’s Tomas Kvasnica managed to put the ball into the net after a nice pass from Matus Gajdos. Slovakia then continued their pressure and scored 2-0 in a counterattack less than a minute after the first goal. Three minutes later, it was time again. Filip Conka-Skyba passed to a free Michael Dudovic, who easily scored Slovakia’s third goal.  

Despite being behind, Estonia stood up well and kept pushing forward. The reduction came after a quarter of the match had been played and was signed by Tanel Kasenurm. However, before the period ended, Slovakia managed to score 4-1, which also became the score at the end of the period. 

The second period began with an increase in pace from Estonia, who also managed to reduce the score once again. However, it didn’t take long before Slovakia regained control and extended their lead twice. Estonia managed to reduce the score once more but struggled to establish play in the offensive zone. The final score of the second period was thus 8-3 in favor of Slovakia. 

The third period followed the same pattern as the previous ones. Slovakia controlled the game, but Estonia refused to give up and took advantage of the opportunities they had. After eight minutes, they reduced the score once again. The final minutes offered a battle with Estonia closing in on Slovakia. With less than five minutes left, they made it 8-5 and then chose to pull their goalkeeper to play with an extra player. Despite a brave Estonia that never gave up, they couldn’t quite challenge Slovakia, who ultimately emerged as the winner. The final nail in the coffin came when Slovakia made it 9-5 into an empty net. 

After the match, Slovakia’s player of the match, Michal Dudovic, stated that the team hadn’t been sharp at the start of the match. 

– I don’t think we were ready from the start. But during the game we found our game and started to score some goals. It was a difficult game and it was nice to win. 

Slovakia will face Czechia in their quarterfinal which takes place on Thursday evening.