Severi Savonsalmi's Lucky Chain Fixed in Tampere Ahead of Serbia Match

Severi Savonsalmi's gold chain broke in Tampere but was repaired in time for Finland's game against Serbia, Aamulehti reports. The 26-year-old national team player found a local jeweller who fixed the chain so he could wear his lucky charm during the match.

The incident comes as Finland continue their successful run at the European Championship in Tampere, highlighted by a five-set win over Belgium and sold-out crowds at Nokia Arena.

Savonsalmi, one of the few tattooed members of Finland's men's volleyball squad, says players often avoid new tattoos. The post-ink healing period prevents heavy sweating, and coaches rarely grant time off. The chain is a talisman he has worn since his early league seasons. After waking up with the pendant in his hand following a match in Tampere, he searched for a repair shop and was relieved to find one that offered good service. He and his chain will be back on court Wednesday. Finland faces host Italy in the European Championship quarterfinals at 22:05 local time.