Adam Williams presents his prediction for the IIHF World Championship match.
While the opening clash between Switzerland and Czechia in Group B might carry more weight on paper, the stands at the Jyske Bank Boxen in Herning are expected to be far more crowded for this encounter. The reason is simple: Denmark, one of the two host nations of the tournament, are stepping onto the ice.
Denmark
Despite the passionate home support, the hosts have virtually no realistic chance against a squad that, even when composed of NHL players of only average calibre, still outclasses Denmark in almost every department. Last year, Denmark finished seventh in their group—a respectable outcome as it meant avoiding the relegation play-off. They did not face the USA at that tournament. Under head coach Mikael Chrintz-Gath, the squad managed only two wins—a 5:1 win over fellow strugglers Austria, and a tense, narrow 4:3 victory over Great Britain in what proved to be a crucial survival clash.
USA
The USA, on the other hand, secured second place in their group with five wins from seven games, only to be eliminated by the Czech Republic in the quarter-finals. That squad, led by a resolute defensive display and a flawless performance from Lukáš Dostal—who stopped all 36 shots—edged out the Americans 1:0. The USA 2025 squad arriving in Denmark is coached by Ryan Warsofsky, head coach of the San Jose Sharks and previously an assistant on the 2023 roster. With the San Jose Sharks known for their youthful makeup, it's no surprise this national squad also leans heavily on emerging talent, with 16 of the 22 players yet to reach the age of 27.
Denmark vs USA Prediction
As much as Denmark would love to record victories on home ice, a positive result against the USA appears beyond reach. In their last three World Championship meetings, the USA have triumphed by at least three goals in each encounter. That trend is expected to continue this Friday.
