Slovakia vs Czech Republic: 2024 World Junior Championship preview and betting tips

The U20 World Championship starts shortly after Christmas and will provide a spicy spectacle for Czechoslovak fans, as the Slovakia vs. Czech Republic derby is expected at the start of the championship. The opening duel of the Czech hockey team is scheduled for Tuesday 26 December at 12:00.

Where to watch Slovakia vs Czech Republic?

The opening match of the 2024 World Junior Ice Hockey Championship between Slovakia and the Czech Republic kicks off on Tuesday 26 December at 12:00. Sweden will host this year’s championship and the Czechs will challenge the Slovaks at Frölundaborgs Isstadion in Gothenburg. Fans can watch the match on ČT Sport or JOJ Sport.

The Silver Czechs have a tough task ahead of them

The Czech juniors had a fantastic World Championships last year when they reached the final. However, they fell short to Canada and took the silver medal after a 2:3 result after extra time. Second place is a huge achievement, however, as it was the first medal haul in 18 years.

This year the Czechs are not among the favourites, but they are used to it. They can surprise just like in the previous year, but we have to keep our heads down. Advancing out of the group is taken as a duty, then advancing to the medal fight would be a great success.

Slovakia vs Czech Republic odds

Betting tip – Czech Republic to win

The Czech team have a tough task ahead of them this year as they are being watched due to their silver last year. They are expected to get off to a good start and should win. They scored five goals and received four against Slovakia at the World Cup last year, and should score at least three goals if they win. Someone from the first line, such as captain Kulich or Eduard Šalé, could be among the scorers.