USA - France predictions and free betting tips [16/05/2024]

At 18:20 , the group stage match in the elite division of the Ice Hockey World Championship kicks off. Fans of international hockey can look forward to the clash between the USA and France national teams.

USA

North American athletes have not been world champions for a while, but the USA always remains a favourite and contender for the top spots. Last year, the USA had an outstanding performance in the group stage, winning all 7 matches. Finishing first in their group allowed them to face the Czech Republic in the quarter-finals. However, the USA lost to Germany in the semi-finals. The Americans also faced disappointment in the third-place match, losing to Latvia 4-3 in overtime.

Heading into the 2024 World Championship, the USA had high hopes for success and medals. However, current results suggest otherwise. In the first tournament game, the USA lost to Sweden 5-2. The second match saw the USA take revenge for last year's semi-final defeat by convincingly beating Germany by a 4-goal margin. Another setback came in the third game against Slovakia, where the USA lost 5-4 in overtime.

With just one win in three matches, the USA finds itself in fifth place in Group B. However, this situation is likely temporary. The USA still has matches against underdogs and mid-level teams, and is only two points behind Germany.

France

A few years ago, France's national team left the elite division of the World Championship but quickly returned and secured its place among the best. Last year, France achieved its main goal of retaining its position in the elite division, finishing in 6th place in the group stage with 4 points. France managed to stay ahead of Austria and Hungary, who were battling to avoid relegation.

In the 2024 World Championship, France has played three matches and already secured one win. Firstly, France lost in regulation time to Kazakhstan. The game against Latvia brought France one point, thanks to an overtime result. The next match was even more successful, with France defeating Poland, their main competitor, 4-2. Four points allow France to feel relatively safe in the battle for survival. Now, France needs to wait for competitors' results and hope to earn points against stronger teams.

Head-to-Head

In all 9 head-to-head encounters, the USA emerged victorious. Most of these matches had lopsided scores.

Prediction

The USA will win in regulation time. Following a poor start to the World Championship, the USA must now secure points against the underdogs. The USA will be highly motivated, as there is no room for jokes when one of the favourites is outside the quarter-final spots.