Historic Faceoff: Tolvanen Brothers Make IIHF History in World Championship Opener

Finland edged Austria 2-1 in an opening gameienzaer that will be remembered for generations

The 2025 World Championship knew it had a blockbuster game on its hands when Finland and Austria faced off in the tournament opener. Little did hockey fans know, they were about to witness history.

“It looked like any other Game 1,” said one spectator. “But this was no ordinary game.”

Brothers in Sport, Adversaries on Ice

Growing up in Vihti, Finland, Eeli Tolvanen and Atte Tolvanen chased each other around the house, their hockey sticks clashing, their dreams interlocking. On Monday, those dreams converged on the ice in spite of themselves.

For the first time ever, a goalie brother faced a skater brother in an IIHF event. The Tolvanen brothers, separated by five years, stood on opposite sides of the rink, their national anthems echoing around them.

How did they get here?

Atte, born in 1994, carved his path through Finnish juniors, the NAHL, and NCAA with Northern Michigan. Undrafted, he returned home to Liiga before heading to Austria in 2021, earning eligibility for their national team.

Eeli, five years younger, opted for the USHL and was drafted 30th overall by Nashville in 2017. Since then, he’s been lighting up the NHL with Seattle.

“Another Goalie in Net”: Tolvanen Brothers Reflect

“In the game, he’s just another goalie in net.” – Eeli Tolvanen

– Eeli Tolvanen, on facing his brother Atte

Despite their unique bond, neither brother wanted special treatment. When asked about facing Eeli, Atte simply said, “It’s part of the game.”

Brothers in Battle, Brothers in Arms

The final score was 2-1, Finland. Eeli potted the victory, but Atte stole the show, turning away three of his sibling’s shots, including a breakaway in the third.

“That’s something nice, to make that save,” Atte beamed post-game. “Hopefully there’s a picture of it somewhere.”

Next Up?

While Austria vs Switzerland in the playoffs might not happen this year, the Tolvanen saga is far from over. Maybe next summer, the brothers can share their rivalry and their drills.

Did you know?

• Eeli has won gold with Finland’s U18s and 2019 World Juniors.
• Atte has never been drafted but played one AHL season before returning home.

What’s your prediction for the next Tolvanen sibling showdown?

Sound off in the comments below!

Photo: IIHF