Lions reach semi-finals in Olympics Ice Hockey

An extra time goal by Artturi Lehkonen took defending champion Finland to the men's ice hockey semifinals beating Switzerland at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics on Wednesday.

Earlier, last moment equaliser by Miro Heiskanen just one minute 12 seconds ahead of ending the regular time kept the Olympic dream alive for the Finns, who remained behind Switzerland in the match until 58 minutes 48 seconds.

Two early scores by Damien Riat and Nino Niederreiter took lead for Switzerland in the match in the first period and the Lions had to wait until about 55 minutes to reduce the gap before the score by Sebastian Aho.

After conceding two quick first-period goals, the Finns pulled level in the final minutes to force overtime and won finally.

News agency Xinhua adds: Canada, the United States and Slovakia also reached the semifinals on Wednesday beating Czech Republic, Sweden and Germany respectively.

Canada beat the Czech Republic 4-3. Mitch Marner struck 1:22 into overtime, finishing off a quick transition to send Canada into the semifinals.

The United States beat Sweden 2-1. After the teams were tied 1-1 after regulation, Quinn Hughes scored 3:27 into overtime to send the Americans through.

In the day's opening quarterfinal, Slovakia produced a composed 6-2 victory over Germany.

Finland will face Canada while the United States take on Slovakia on Friday.