The Stats Zone
May 16 2019, 13:49 · Ash Wheldon

2019 Men's World Ice Hockey Championships – Czech Republic vs Latvia Preview & Prediction

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THE FACTS

When does Czech Republic vs Latvia start? Thursday 16th May, 2019 – 19:15 (UK)

Where is Czech Republic vs Latvia being played? Ondrej Nepela Arena, Slovakia

What television channel is Czech Republic vs Latvia on in the UK? This match will not be televised live in the UK

Where can I stream Czech Republic vs Latvia in the UK? This match cannot be streamed live in the UK

Where can I get tickets for Czech Republic vs Latvia? https://www.iihf.com/en/events/2019/wm/static/6180/tickets

THE STATISTICS

HEAD-TO-HEAD
Last meeting: Latvia 3-4 Czech Republic

THE TEAM NEWS

CZECH REPUBLIC

  • Czech Republic found it tough going against an in-form Russian side as they fell to their first defeat in the 2019 IIHF World Championships after wins in their opening two matches.

  • The Czechs were defeated 3-0 by Russia as they failed to back-up their impressive 5-2 win over Sweden before they comfortably saw off Norway in a 7-2 victory with this game representing a good chance to get back to winning ways.

  • Dallas Stars forward Radek Faksa has a chance of playing in this contest after he overcame a shoulder problem to join up with the squad in what will be a big boost to the Czechs’ attacking options.

LATVIA

  • Latvia have started their campaign brightly with a couple of solid wins to their name so far and although this will be a tough match-up, they will be hoping they can push the Czech Republic all the way.

  • The Latvians opened up with a 5-2 victory over Austria in an impressive display before falling 3-1 to Switzerland in a hard-fought contest with a 3-0 shutout win over Italy in their most recent game.

  • Latvia will be hoping their promising start can lead to a place in the quarter-finals and if they are to do so, rookie NHL duo Rudolfs Balcers and Teodors Blugers could be key with their raw talent getting a chance to flourish.

THE PREDICTION

Czech Republic and Latvia face off in a game that could go either way. The Czechs come into the match as favourites but Latvia will feel they can spring a surprise after competing well in the competition so far although they will need to put in a complete performance to claim the win. The Czech Republic failed to score in their last match against a tough Russian outfit but can get back to winning ways here although Latvia will make it difficult for them.