Latvia - Austria: Prediction, facts, bets and H2H - 19 May 2026
Latvia
Austria
On Tuesday, 19 May, we are in for a very interesting clash between Latvia and Austria in the group stage of the Ice Hockey World Championship. It starts at 16:20 CET and I am offering a bet on it.
Latvia - Austria: Match preview
Latvia have developed into a very solid team that is producing strong hockey. They have become more consistent in their battles and have started reaching the playoffs, and quite recently, in 2023, the team even made it to the semi-finals of the competition and finished third in the tournament standings.
The squad has several NHL representatives, but they did not come to this tournament. Despite this, the Latvians have already recorded a win at the current tournament. The team lost their opening game to Switzerland 2:4, but then managed to beat Germany 2:0.
The intrigue in the fight for the playoffs will remain, and the fourth place is up for grabs, so the Latvians can once again fight and reach the knockout stage.
Austria have made a sensational start to this edition of the 2026 World Championship. They are mostly considered mid-table among national teams. At times they try to fight for a playoff spot, and their start in this year’s tournament could help them significantly.
They defeated Great Britain 5:2 in the opening match and then beat Hungary 4:2. As a result, the team already has six points after two games. Ahead lies the battle for a playoff place against direct rivals such as Latvia and Switzerland.
A victory over the Latvians in this match could greatly boost Austria’s chances of reaching the playoffs.
Match facts and H2H
- Austria have won their last three matches.
- Latvia have won three of their previous four matches.
- In their last three matches, Austria have consistently scored at least four goals.
- The last head-to-head match between these teams ended in a 1:0 victory for Latvia.
Prediction
A direct battle for a playoff spot, so to speak. Both Latvia and Austria need to win if they want to secure a place in the playoffs. That is why I expect a strong game and suggest a bet on over 4.5 total goals.
