Headlocks, punches thrown in nine-man brawl
Sydney Morning Herald
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A chaotic nine-man brawl erupted during the Olympic ice hockey semi-finals when Canada's Sam Bennett shoved Finland's goaltender into his own net, sparking widespread controversy and excitement. The incident occurred in a high-stakes game, with Bennett's actions leading to a benches-clearing melee that drew intense reactions from fans and officials alike. This aggressive move not only disrupted the game but also highlighted the intense rivalry and emotions that define elite-level hockey competitions.
The semi-final match between Canada and Finland was already tense, with both teams fighting for a spot in the gold medal game. Bennett, known for his physical play, decided to target Finland's netminder, who was caught off guard by the shove, resulting in him sliding into his own net. The Finnish team quickly retaliated, leading to a chaotic scramble on the ice as players from both sides engaged in punches and pushing, with officials struggling to restore order.
The incident has sparked debates about sportsmanship and the consequences of such actions in international competitions. While some fans praised Bennett for his aggression and competitive spirit, others criticized him for losing control and putting the game's integrity at risk. The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) is now reviewing the matter, with potential disciplinary measures against Bennett and other players involved.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/20/2026