2019 Men's World Ice Hockey Championships – Austria vs Czech Republic Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When does Austria vs Czech Republic start? Sunday 19th May, 2019 – 15:15 (UK)
Where is Austria vs Czech Republic being played? Ondrej Nepela Arena, Slovakia
What television channel is Austria vs Czech Republic on in the UK? This match will not be televised live in the UK
Where can I stream Austria vs Czech Republic in the UK? This match cannot be streamed live in the UK
Where can I get tickets for Austria vs Czech Republic? https://www.iihf.com/en/events/2019/wm/static/6180/tickets
THE STATISTICS
HEAD-TO-HEAD
Last meeting: Austria 4-5 Czech Republic
THE TEAM NEWS
AUSTRIA
- Austria remain winless in the 2019 IIHF World Championships after they were narrowly beaten by Norway with that result ensuring that they remain in danger of being relegated.
- The 5-3 reverse to Norway sees Austria sit in 7th
position in Group B with only Italy below them and must try and pick up points in their final two matches if they are to retain their elite status.
- Austria have only managed six goals from their five games so far with only Italy and Great Britain scoring fewer across the competition with their forwards needing to collectively improve to provide more in front of goal.
CZECH REPUBLIC
- Czech Republic improved their record to 4-1 as they comfortably overcame Italy as expected and now sit on the cusp of qualifying for the quarter-finals with the Czechs able to secure that with a win here.
- An 8-0 hammering over Italy put the Czech Republic on 12 points and with Latvia six points behind with just two games left, the Czechs are all but certain of progressing but they can ensure it with a win over winless Austria.
- Michael Frolik and Jakub Voracek have been the key pair for the Czechs with both contributing 10 points each for their side and will again be important here as they look to rack up another big score.
THE PREDICTION
Austria are still in relegation danger having failed to win a single game so far and will need some points from their final two games to ensure their safety. Czech Republic on the other hand look set for a spot in the quarter-finals and can confirm their place with a win here. The Czechs have been solid in the competition so far and will fancy themselves to post another big win to seal their progression.
