MILAN (AP) — Juraj Slafkovsky had Slovakia's only two goals four years ago in the first men's hockey game at the Beijing Olympics, a convincing loss to Finland. Slafkovsky again scored twice in the tournament opener.

Slovakia enjoyed a home atmosphere in their win over hosts Italy at Milano Rho Arena in the men's Olympic ice hockey tournament on Friday, but their star player Juraj Slafkovsky is glad they will be back at Santagiulia for their final group game.

The Slovakia men’s hockey team upset Finland 4-1 in Wednesday’s round robin opener at the Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena. And thanks to the hockey game, a fugitive’s 16-year escape from authorities also came to an end.

Adam Ruzicka scored his second goal in as many games and Team Slovakia took sole possession of first place in Group B with a 3-2 win against Team Italy at Rho Arena in Milan on Friday.

They have a tough test the rest of the way, but Slovakia has the pieces in place to go on an unlikely run to the gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Slovakia continues to impress at the tournament, remaining undefeated in Group B after a hard-fought 3-2 victory over host Italy. Captain Tomas Tatar and his teammates have defied expectations, showcasing strong leadership and a dangerous offensive unit.

While on a vastly different scale, Slafkovský is like the Sidney Crosby of Slovakia, and this could be his breakout moment.