Slovakia vs Finland Preview & Prediction | 2026 Winter Olympics | Men’s Ice Hockey | Bronze Medal Game

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Slovakia and Finland are set to face off for the second time at these Olympic games in the Men’s Ice Hockey, only this time it’s for the bronze medal.

Kick-off date/time:

How to watch on TV: UK – TNT Sports (some events will also be televised on the BBC / TNT Sports / Not Televised / USA – NBC, USA Network, CNBC & NBCSN

How to watch online: UK – discovery+ (some events can be streamed live on the BBC’s digital platforms / USA – Peacock & nbcolympics.com

Slovakia vs Finland prediction

Slovakia were outclassed offensively by USA in the semi-finals, losing 6-2 in the end although they did at least finish strong with both of their goals coming in the third period. Finland however, suffered heartbreak in what was expected to be a close contest against another stacked side in Canada. They ultimately ran out of the steam in the final period after being 2-1 ahead, as Canada scored two unanswered goals to win 3-2.

The last time these two nations played was the first Group B fixture in the preliminary round, when Slovakia defeated Finland 4-1 after an electric third period which saw them blow the Finnish squad away. However, Finland have gradually improved all tournament long and are a much better team now having played consistently together over the past week.

When comparing the two rosters, Finland’s is the better one from an ability perspective and they are playing well all over the ice at this point. Slovakia are a good team but were exposed defensively against USA. With that in mind, it’s worth backing this Finland line-up full of familiar NHL names to claim bronze.

Slovakia vs Finland tip: Finland to win