Italy - Hungary predictions and free betting tips [03/05/2024]

The final game of the World Hockey Championship's First Division match day will commence. Hockey enthusiasts are anticipating a head-to-head match between Italy and Hungary.

Italy

Italian hockey players are recognisable to worldwide audiences owing to their frequent presence among the strongest representatives of the community. Between the years of 2005 and 2022, the Italian team often stayed in the Elite Division of the World Hockey Championship and delivered excellent performances, such as ranking 12th in the 2007 tournament.

In 2021, Italy was relegated from the World Championship Elite Division, yet managed to cling to it for another tournament. The 2022 tournament turned out even more disappointing, forcing Italy to leave the Elite and start competing in the First Division. This year, the Italian team is a contender for a promotion, currently occupying the 3rd spot. The Italians beat Romania and Japan, but lost to rivals Slovenia.

Hungary

The Hungarian national team often yo-yos between the Elite and First Divisions of the World Hockey Championship. In 2023, the Hungarian team played in the Elite Division of the World Championship but was unable to retain its spot for two consecutive tournaments. The Hungarian team also competed with the world's strongest teams in 2016 and 2009.

Having never finished higher than 15th place in the 21st century, they now have excellent chances to make it to the Elite Division. In the 2024 World Championship's First Division, they have played 3 matches and triumphed in 2 of them. Hungary had a successful start, defeating both Japan and South Korea. However, a surprising loss to Romania, who is at risk of dropping to Group "B", could potentially undermine their prospects of moving up to the Elite Division.

Previous Meetings

Italy and Hungary have faced each other in 21 official matches. Italy has 11 victories to its credit, while Hungary has prevailed in 10 encounters.

Total Forecast

The individual total for Hungary will be over 1 goal scored.

Prediction

Italy will prevail in regular time. The Italian hockey players are among the main contenders for a class promotion and have already suffered a defeat, which has complicated their tournament position. Italy can't afford more mistakes; the match against Hungary will be challenging, but the players of Austrian and German descent will play a crucial role.