Roope Vesterinen scored twice, and Finland defeated Denmark 6-2 in the opening game of the 2026 World Junior Championships in Minneapolis. Here are four takeaways from the game:

Finland's Offensive Depth Shines

Finland showcased its offensive capabilities with four players recording multi-point games. Roope Vesterinen led the way with two goals, while Jasper Kuhta contributed three assists. Onni Kalto, Oliver Suvanto, Aatos Koivu, Aron Kiviharju, Lasse Boelius, and Leo Tuuva also made their mark on the scoresheet, demonstrating Finland's ability to generate offense from various sources.

Aron Kiviharju's Strong Performance

Aron Kiviharju, a Minnesota Wild draft pick, proved to be a standout player for Finland. The defenseman showcased his skills with two assists and a strong defensive game. Kiviharju's confidence with the puck and strong skating ability were evident as he contributed to Finland's victory.

Denmark Fights Despite Being Outmatched

Denmark, returning to the top division since 2019, faced a tough challenge against a strong Finnish team. Despite being outshot, the Danes managed to score two goals against a team favored to contend for a medal. William Bundgaard and Anton Linde found the back of the net for Denmark, demonstrating their resilience and ability to capitalize on opportunities.

Anton Emil Wilde Larsen, a Bright Spot for Denmark

Danish goaltender Anton Emil Wilde Larsen played a crucial role in preventing the score from escalating into double digits. Larsen's impressive saves against Finland's top players kept Denmark within reach for a significant portion of the game. His performance suggests he could be a potential NHL draft pick in the future if he maintains his form throughout the tournament.