2019 Men's World Ice Hockey Championships – Russia vs Norway Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When does Russia vs Norway start? Friday 10th May, 2019 – 15:15 (UK)
Where is Russia vs Norway being played? Ondrej Nepela Arena, Slovakia
What television channel is Russia vs Norway on in the UK? This match will not be televised live in the UK
Where can I stream Russia vs Norway in the UK? This match cannot be streamed live in the UK
Where can I get tickets for Russia vs Norway? https://www.iihf.com/en/events/2019/wm/static/6180/tickets
THE STATISTICS
HEAD-TO-HEAD
Last meeting: Russia 3-0 Norway
THE TEAM NEWS
RUSSIA
- Russia head into this competition as favourites alongside Canada and should find themselves on the podium as they look to improve on last year’s sixth place following four consecutive medal finishes.
- Gold in 2014 was followed by silver in 2015 and two bronze medals in 2016 and 2017 but major improvements have been made since last year’s poor finish and the Russians will cause big problems for their opponents despite a couple of defeats recently.
- The Russians have plenty of talent amongst their ranks with a big emphasis on their attacking weapons with the likes of Yevgeni Malkin, Alexander Ovechkin and Evgeny Kuznetsov all available.
NORWAY
- Norway face a tough task to qualify for the quarter-finals with Russia and Sweden likely to claim two of those berths with the Norwegians vying for the remaining two berths out of Group B.
- Despite a 13th placed finish at last year’s IIHF World Championship, the Norwegians are currently ranked ninth in the world rankings but will need to punch above their weight to make an impression on this year’s competition.
- Norway aren’t blessed with any real superstars in their ranks and will need to work hard to be effective but with them lacking firepower in attack, it could be difficult for them to progress out of the group stage.
THE PREDICTION
Russia look set to challenge for the World Championship crown and should be able to kick start their tournament with what should be a relatively straight-forward win over Norway. With a plethora of NHL and KHL talent in their ranks, they will have too much for their opponents. Although their defence may not be the strongest, their attacking talent will cause all sorts of problems for Norway and they can lay down a marker for the rest of the competition in their opening game.
