Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship match.
Sweden U-20
Sweden faced big problems in the quarter-final match. They managed to beat Switzerland only in overtime (3:2). Czechia had a lead in the semi-final game too, but Sweden beat 5:2 eventually. Sweden lost a friendly game against the United States (2:5) prior to the game. Sweden will feel the pressure of their fans in this game. They’re unlikely to perform in their best way.
USA U-20
Finland unexpectedly had a 2:0 lead in the middle of the game against the United States. Although the American team was a favourite prior to the game. The US side managed to turn the tables and win the game (3:2), scoring a decisive goal three minutes until the end of the match. The USA can be on fire after this success. Sweden are a convenient opponent for the American side as the US team has won the last 7 head-to-head games.
Sweden U-20 – USA U-20 prediction
The United States are the only team to avoid losing during the current tournament. They beat Latvia (7:2) in the quarter-final game. They managed to beat Finland (3:2). The United States are the obvious favourites of this game. They won’t lose this final.