The World Games 2025 - Men's Day 1 recap

Switzerland edges Latvia in dramatic Group A clash

In a thrilling and physical encounter at The World Games 2025, Switzerland came from behind to defeat Latvia 4–3 in front of 786 spectators, sealing the win in the final moments of the match.

Latvia started strong, taking a 2–0 lead midway through the second period with goals from Artis Raitums and Markuss Dumpis. But Switzerland quickly responded. Matteo Steiner was the spark for the Swiss, scoring twice — the first assisted by Noel Seiler and the second by David Hermle — to level the game at 2–2 heading into the third.

Jan Zaugg had earlier opened the scoring in the first period and added a crucial assist on Gianluca Persici’s goal late in the third, which brought Switzerland back within reach at 3–4. With time ticking down and an empty net behind them, the Swiss pressure forced an own goal by Latvia in the dying seconds, sealing a dramatic 4–3 comeback victory.

Steiner was named player of the match for Switzerland, while Latvia will be left to rue missed chances and the unfortunate finish.

Switzerland’s next match will be crucial in the race for the semi-finals, while Latvia will seek redemption in their upcoming fixture.

Final Score: Switzerland 4 – 3 Latvia
Spectators: 786
Periods: 0–1, 2–1, 2–1
Swiss scorers: Steiner (2), Zaugg (1+1), Persici (1)
Latvian scorers: Raitums (1), Dumpis (1), own goal (1)

Finland sets historic record with 42–0 win in Group B opener

Finland delivered a jaw-dropping performance on the opening day of Group B at The World Games 2025, defeating their opponent 42–0 in one of the most dominant displays in international floorball history.

From the first whistle, the Finns asserted total control, scoring within the opening three minutes and never letting up. The relentless attack was matched by flawless defensive organization, preventing any scoring opportunities from the opposition.

Juuso Ahola led the scoring frenzy with six goals and four assists, while Alpo Laitila followed closely behind with five goals. Captain Joona Rantala orchestrated the play beautifully with four goals and six assists, and Oskari Heikkilä was a standout with five assists, regularly setting up teammates from the back.

In total, 14 different Finnish players registered points, showcasing the depth, skill, and cohesion of the team. The scoreline continued to grow steadily through all three periods, with 18 goals in the third alone.

The result sends a powerful message to the rest of the tournament: Finland is here with one goal in mind – gold.

Final Score: Finland 42 – 0 China
Periods: 10–0, 15–0, 17–0
Top scorers Finland:

Juuso Ahola (6+4)
Joona Rantala (4+6)
Alpo Laitila (5+2)
Luukas Hyvärinen (4+2)
Juho Repo (3+1)

Finland’s next match is eagerly anticipated as fans and teams alike watch how far this explosive form can carry them.

Czechia overwhelms Canada 29–1 in Group B opener

Czechia kicked off their World Games 2025 campaign with a commanding 29–1 win over Canada in Group B, putting on a dominant display of offensive firepower and tactical superiority.

The Czechs scored early and often, with Filip Langer leading the charge. The dynamic forward racked up five goals and four assists, orchestrating the attack with surgical precision. He was well-supported by Matej Havlas (3+3), Josef Rypar (3+1), and Lukas Puncochar (3 goals), as 14 Czech players recorded at least one point.

Canada showed brief resistance in the second period with Steven Friedli netting their lone goal, assisted by Adam Jette, but it was far from enough to halt the Czech momentum.

Czechia’s depth and structure proved overwhelming, scoring 13 times in the third period alone. The result sends a strong message to the rest of the field: Czechia is here to contend for a medal.

Final Score: Czechia 29 – 1 Canada
Periods: 7–0, 8–1, 14–0
Top scorers Czechia: