Latvia vs Finland: prediction, facts, odds and H2H – May 21, 2026
Latvia
Finland
On Thursday, May 21, Latvia will face Finland in a 2026 Ice Hockey World Championship group-stage clash. The game gets underway at 16:20 CET, and here is the recommended bet for the matchup.
Latvia vs Finland: match preview
Latvia have produced some very solid hockey at recent World Championships, but this campaign has not gone entirely to plan. They opened with a 4–2 defeat to Switzerland, then responded with a 2–0 victory over Germany, but in their most recent outing Latvia fell 3–1 to direct rivals Austria. As a result, their playoff hopes have become significantly more complicated.
They now face two crucial fixtures against Finland and the United States. Latvia arrived at this tournament without a single NHL player on the roster, and that has also had an impact on the team’s performances.
Finland brought an outstanding squad to this tournament. They have 12 NHL players on the roster, including captain Aleksander Barkov and his Florida teammate Anton Lundell. Suomi have won all three of their games: 3–1 against Germany, 4–1 over Hungary, and a dominant 6–2 win against the United States.
That leaves them with a perfect nine points from three rounds, a 13–4 goal differential, and first place in the group. They sit ahead of Switzerland and Austria on tiebreakers, with head-to-head matchups against both still to come.
Those games will be their chance to solidify first place and protect their position at the summit.
Match facts and H2H
- Finland have won their last five games.
- Finland have scored at least three goals in eight straight matches.
- The Finns boast the best defensive record in the group, with only four goals conceded.
- Latvia defeated Finland 2–1 in overtime in their most recent head-to-head meeting.
Prediction
The Finns have brought a top-class roster and are clearly among the favourites for this tournament. The team is playing excellent hockey. Latvia are a tough opponent, but the recommended wager here is total goals over 5.
