Italy vs Norway: prediction, facts, betting tips and H2H – May 19, 2026
Italy
Norvège
In the group stage of the 2026 IIHF World Championship, Italy will face Norway. The game takes place on Tuesday, May 19, with puck drop at 16:20 CET, and here is my betting pick for the matchup.
Italy vs Norway: match preview
Italy are not part of the stable elite in international hockey, spending most of their time either fighting for a place among the top 16 teams in the world or competing in Division IA in pursuit of promotion to the top tier. They do not have a single NHL player in their roster.
At this 2026 World Championship, their main goal is survival — staying in the top division for another year. So far, they have collected zero points after two defeats: 6–0 to Canada and 4–1 to Slovakia. Matches against teams like Norway, Denmark, and Slovenia are crucial for Italy if they want to preserve their elite status.
Norway are a difficult opponent, especially when compared to Italy. They also mostly fight to remain in the top division. Last year, they managed just one win and collected four points overall, which was enough to stay in the elite tier. This year, however, they have already taken a big step forward with a 4–0 victory over Slovenia, earning three very important points.
A win against Italy would significantly strengthen their position in the elite division and potentially keep them in contention for a playoff push, although tough matches against Canada, Czechia, and Sweden still await.
Match facts and H2H
- Italy have lost four of their last five matches.
- In three consecutive games, Italy have conceded at least four goals per match.
- Norway have also lost three of their last four games.
- Italy currently have one of the worst defensive records in the tournament with 10 goals conceded.
- The last head-to-head meeting between these teams was in 2021, when Norway won 4–1.
Prediction
This is a very important match for both teams, and I expect a competitive battle for points. However, I still see Norway as the stronger side with a more solid roster, so my recommendation is a Norway win.
