2019 Men's World Ice Hockey Championships – Latvia vs Russia Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When does Latvia vs Russia start? Saturday 17th May, 2019 – 11:15 (UK)
Where is Latvia vs Russia being played? Ondrej Nepela Arena, Slovakia
What television channel is Latvia vs Russia on in the UK? This match will not be televised live in the UK
Where can I stream Latvia vs Russia in the UK? This match cannot be streamed live in the UK
Where can I get tickets for Latvia vs Russia? https://www.iihf.com/en/events/2019/wm/static/6180/tickets
THE STATISTICS
HEAD-TO-HEAD
Last meeting: Latvia 2-1 Russia
THE TEAM NEWS
LATVIA
- Latvia came out second best against the Czech Republic as they dropped to 2-2 for the tournament and face an uphill battle to make the quarter-finals because of their remaining fixtures.
- After the 6-3 defeat to the Czechs, Latvia sit in fifth spot in the Group B standings but with unbeaten Russia and reigning champions Sweden still to come, they will have to pull off at least one shock result to progress.
- If Latvia are to achieve that, they will need to hope Rudolfs Balcers carries on his fine form which has seen him score one goal and provide six assists in the competition to rank in the top 15 players in terms of points.
RUSSIA
- Russia swept Italy aside as expected to maintain their 100% start to the 2019 IIHF World Championships and although you cannot take a great deal from that match alone, the Russians look a strong contender.
- The triumph over the Italians in which they won 10-0 saw the Russians complete their third shutout victory in a row with their defence taking some penetrating as the Czech Republic and Austria can quantify.
- Nikita Kucherov and Nikita Gusev have been two of the stars of the competition so far with Kucherov scoring three goals and providing seven assists whilst Gusev has also chipped in with two goals and six assists.
THE PREDICTION
Russia were far too good for Italy in their last match and despite all-but ensuring they progress to the quarter-finals, they can make sure of it with a win over Latvia. The Russians will be looking for a fourth straight shutout victory as they bid to maintain their 100% record. They have done a solid job in both attack and defence and whilst Latvia are capable of causing a few problems, the gulf in quality will be evident again here with Russia earning another win.
