adam-williams/&source=gmail&ust=1746870698551000&usg=AOvVaw3s1YDngzciG3SRyI6whWdI" href="https://legalbet.uk/expert/adam-williams/" target="_blank">Adam Williams presents his prediction for the IIHF World Championship match.
Germany open their World Championship campaign with a golden opportunity to build momentum and lay the foundation for another play-off run — something they’ve achieved in seven of the last eight editions. Facing newly promoted Hungary, who arrive with modest ambitions and limited firepower, this is a match the Germans must win comfortably to avoid complications in their bid for a top-four finish in Group B.
Germany
Germany remain largely intact from last year’s tournament. Key figures like Leo Pföderl (3+6 at the 2024 World Championship) and veteran scorer Felix Schütz (26+20 for Kölner Haie this season) are in excellent form. Add to that Moritz Seider, coming off a strong NHL campaign with the Detroit Red Wings (8+38), and the Germans look well-balanced. Their recent form supports that: a comeback win over Slovakia and a dominant pair of victories against Austria (3:2 and 5:0). The last time they faced Hungary, Germany cruised to a 7:2 win — and the gap between the teams has only widened since.
Hungary
Hungary’s main focus, as always, is survival. Their attack relies on ageing stalwarts like István Sofron, István Bartalis, and Balázs Sebők — all aged 30 or older — while top scorer Gergö Mihalik plies his trade in the domestic Hungarian league. Against top-tier nations, Hungary typically collapse. At the 2023 tournament, they suffered four defeats with at least seven goals conceded in each. Hungary are realistically targeting games against Kazakhstan and Norway — those are their true battles.
Germany vs Hungary Prediction
Germany have a superior roster, more offensive firepower, and a proven track record of dispatching weaker sides with ease. Against a Hungarian side lacking quality, depth and defensive structure, they should comfortably hit the net multiple times.
