Jokerit lose shootout to Vaasan Sport in Liiga return

The Finnish Liiga season opened with high-scoring action, highlighted by the return of Jokerit to domestic competition for the first time since March 2014. In their comeback match, Jokerit faced Vaasan Sport and ultimately lost 5–4 in a shootout after a 4–4 tie in regulation and overtime.

Vaasan Sport’s Canadian reinforcement, George Diaco, was a standout performer, scoring two goals during play and securing the win with two successful shots in the shootout against Jokerit goaltender Veini Vehviläinen. Jokerit’s Emil Kuusla contributed three points in his debut, while Eetu Tuulola scored the first goal of the season.

In other Liiga action, SaiPa secured a 4–2 victory over the defending champions, Tappara. SaiPa’s Santeri Airola led the scoring with three points. Meanwhile, TPS defeated KooKool 4–2 in Turku, despite KooKool playing without their primary goaltender, Eetu Randelia.