Canada - Slovakia predictions and free betting tips [23/05/2024]

The quarter-final match of the World Championship Elite Division in hockey kicks off. International hockey fans are anticipating a thrilling encounter between the national teams of Canada and Slovakia.

Canada

The Canadian national team stands as the best team on the planet, consistently being the favourite at major international tournaments. Last year, Canada had a weak performance during the group stage, losing two matches to Norway and Switzerland. However, during the knockout matches, Canada left no chance for its opponents and reached the final. In the tournament's main match, Canada comfortably and calmly defeated Germany, which had sensationally made it to the final. In 2024, Canada continues to dominate, showcasing its superiority over other hockey powerhouses.

During the group stage, Canada played 7 matches and lost points only twice. They defeated Austria and the Czech Republic in overtime. The match against Austria could be considered a debacle, while the victory over the Czech Republic was a success, considering the hosts' level. There's hardly any need to mention the games against the underdogs, as Denmark and Norway were completely overpowered. Matches against Great Britain, Finland, and Switzerland were not the easiest. Canada surpassed their closest competitors, the Swiss, by 2 points.

Slovakia

Slovakia's hockey players have long been among the world's top teams. While Slovakia used to be a contender for victory, it is now considered a mid-tier team. Last year, Slovakia failed to make it to the quarter-finals and went home after the group stage. In 2024, Slovakia improved on last year's performance and secured a spot in the top four. In 7 group stage matches, Slovakia suffered only three defeats.

Slovakia's performance was weak against Germany, Latvia, and Sweden. In overtime, Slovakia lost to Latvia, earning one point. Slovakia won four other matches, which allowed them to advance to the quarter-finals. Slovakia's successful encounters were against Kazakhstan, Slovenia, Poland, and France. While wins over Kazakhstan, Poland, and France were not major surprises, taking points against the USA was very challenging. Thus, Slovakia finished fourth in the group and qualified for the quarter-finals.

Head-to-Head

The national teams of Slovakia and Canada have met in 14 official matches. Canada boasts 10 victories, while Slovakia emerged stronger in 4 encounters.

Total Prediction

Individual total over (ITO) for Canada will be more than 2 goals.

Prediction

Canada will win in regular time. The Canadian team in the 2024 World Championship leaves no room for doubt, achieving victories in all group stage matches. The present-day Slovakia is far from the one that knocked out North American rivals in the quarter-finals 12 years ago. It won't be without resistance, but Canada will secure their win within the 60 minutes of regular time.