World Junior Championship Predictions: December 31st Czechia vs Latvia
How to Watch: US TV: NHL Network Canada: TSN
Time: 3:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST)
Location: 3M Arena at Mariucci in Minneapolis, Minnesota
Our second New Year’s Eve game features Team Czechia, who enters with a 2-1 record, and Team Latvia, who clinched a quarterfinal spot after a 6-3 victory over Denmark on Tuesday. That win allows Latvia to avoid the possibility of relegation and turn its focus towards Czechia and the upcoming playoff rounds.
Czechia was extremely impressive in their 2-1 overtime win over Finland on Monday, and St. Louis Blues prospect, defender Adam Jiricek is becoming the talk of the tournament after his between-the-legs overtime winner and solid defensive play. Los Angeles Kings prospect, Vojtech Cihar, has also looked solid this tournament with six points through three games. Undrafted Defenceman Tomas Galvashas is also one to keep an eye on, as he’s also accumulated six points for the Czechs so far.
The Team Latvia Perspective
Team Latvia is coming off its first win of the tournament, defeating Denmark 6-3 to secure a spot in the quarterfinal round. Before they fully focus on the playoffs, they’ll have to take on a promising Czech team in their final group stage game. 2026 Draft-Eligible defenceman, Albert Smits, has quickly become one of the fastest rising prospects in the class. He has impressed with his size, skating, and physical play throughout the tournament and will be a key target for NHL teams this cycle. His performance so far should put him in the top 10 of the 2026 NHL Draft. The Latvians will need even more production up front from their top forwards like Kristers Ansons, who leads the team with 4 points so far this tournament, if they want to come out on top on Wednesday.
The Latvians have been impressive this tournament, but Team Czechia looks ready to take the next step in the junior hockey world and compete for a medal this year. Latvia will put up a fight, but it won’t be enough to hold off the Czechs for a full 60 minutes.
Final Prediction: Czechia 5 – Latvia 2
Main Photo: Nick Wosika-Imagn Images
Please play responsibly, check for your local rules and age restrictions; some jurisdictions require ages 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
