The semi-final match of the 2025 World Championship in ice hockey between Sweden and the USA will take place on May 24 at the Avicii Arena in Stockholm. Sweden vs. USA: prediction and betting odds, statistics.
Team Sweden
In the quarter-finals of the World Championship, Sweden defeated the Czech Republic with a score of 5-2. The team had a productive start, scoring three times in the opening 20 minutes, with the first goal coming from a power play. They exchanged goals with the opponent for the remainder of the match. Four Swedish players earned two points each, notably Leo Carlsson and Lucas Raymond, who both scored doubles.
For the second consecutive time, Sweden has reached the semi-finals of the World Championship. Last year, they lost to the Czechs at this stage but managed to secure a bronze medal, marking their first podium finish since 2018. The last time Sweden advanced past the semi-finals was seven years ago, when they went on to win the tournament's gold medals.
- Sweden has won in regulation time in 8 of their last 9 matches at the World Championship.
- The team has scored at least four goals over three periods in 7 of their last 9 World Championship games.
- At least five goals have been scored in regulation time in 7 of Sweden's last 10 World Championship matches.
Team USA
The Americans defeated Finland in the quarter-finals of the World Championship (5-2). The team opened the scoring in the fifth minute with a power play goal, but by mid-game, they were trailing by one goal, having conceded twice while short-handed. However, the USA responded effectively, scoring twice in each of the remaining periods. Four American players recorded two points each, with Conor Garland notably scoring twice.
The USA will play in the semi-finals of the World Championship for the fourth time in the last five years, but they have yet to overcome this barrier. Additionally, they have only reached the podium once during this period, winning bronze in 2021.
- The USA has won in regulation time in their last four World Championship games.
- At least seven goals have been scored over three periods in the last five World Championship matches.
- The Americans have scored at least five goals in regulation time in their last five World Championship games.
Sweden vs. USA: Match Prediction
The last time the USA reached the World Championship final was 65 years ago. Despite bringing strong teams capable of winning gold, they have been unable to break through this barrier. In the current championship, their chances seem slim. Sweden appears stronger defensively, which could secure their place in the final, as their players are on par with the Americans. Additionally, Sweden had a more stable group stage, only losing to Canada, while the USA faced challenges against Norway and Switzerland, failing to score against the latter's robust defense, which they might encounter again in the upcoming match.
Considering the USA's lack of experience in semi-finals and Sweden's confidence, I favor the tournament hosts, especially with the support of their fans. Sweden has won in regulation time in 8 of their last 9 World Championship matches. Moreover, they have won 6 of their last 9 head-to-head World Championship meetings, with only one win beyond regulation time (1 in OT). Given the opponent's caliber, underestimating them is unlikely, so I expect a serious approach. I predict Sweden will settle the match in regulation time, so my prediction: Sweden to Win