The Matchday 12 clash in Group A of the 2025 Ice Hockey World Championship between Slovakia and Finland will take place on May 20 at the Avicii Arena in Stockholm. Slovakia vs. Finland: prediction and betting odds, statistics.
Slovakia National Team
Slovakia suffered their second consecutive defeat in the World Championship, losing 1-5 to Latvia in their last match. The only goal for Slovakia was scored by Sebastian Cederle in the tenth minute during a power play. Slovakia is currently sixth in Group A with seven points.
- Slovakia has lost in regulation time in 5 of their last 8 World Championship games.
- The team has scored at least two goals in 60 minutes in 3 of their last 5 head-to-head World Championship matches.
- No more than five goals have been scored in regulation time in 4 of Slovakia's last 6 games in this World Championship.
Finland National Team
Finland defeated Canada in their previous World Championship match (2-1 in a shootout), marking their third consecutive victory in the tournament. By the start of the third period, the team was trailing by one goal, but managed to equalize in the 7th minute of the final period. In the shootout, Finland converted two attempts, handing Canada their first loss in the tournament. Finland is third in Group A, three points away from second place.
- Finland has scored at least three goals in regulation time in their last five head-to-head World Championship encounters.
- No more than four goals have been scored in three periods in 7 of Finland's last 9 World Championship games.
- The team has not won in regulation time in 5 of their last 8 World Championship matches (3 draws, 2 losses).
Slovakia vs. Finland: Match Prediction
Slovakia is unlikely to make it to the World Championship playoffs, considering the teams above them are unlikely to drop points in their matches. Therefore, this upcoming match holds little significance for them. On the other hand, Finland pleasantly surprised with their victory over Canada and will likely want to solidify their position, especially given the level of their next opponent.
Finland has suffered only one loss in this World Championship, while Slovakia has two consecutive defeats in the tournament. In head-to-head matches against Slovakia, Finland last failed to win in regulation time in 2009, but in the subsequent nine encounters, they resolved all matters within 60 minutes.
I believe Finland will comfortably secure maximum points. My prediction: Victory for Finland