Preview: Sweden vs. Slovakia - prediction, team news, lineups
Preview
When Sweden and Slovakia face off in the semifinals of the 2023 IIHF World Championship, it will be a rematch of the 2022 bronze medal game. Sweden won that game 4-1, but Slovakia will be looking for revenge on home ice. Slovakia will need to be at their best to beat Sweden, who are one of the favorites to win the gold medal. Sweden has a lot of experience in big games, and they will be looking to use that to their advantage.
The game could come down to special teams, as both teams have been very good in that area. Slovakia has the best power play in the tournament, while Sweden has the best penalty kill. Both teams will need to be disciplined and avoid taking unnecessary penalties.
Team news
For Sweden, there are no major injury concerns. The team is expected to have its full lineup available for the game. Slovakia is also expected to have a full lineup available. However, there are some question marks surrounding the health of forward Juraj Slafkovsky. Slafkovsky is one of Slovakia's best players, and his absence would be a big blow to the team.
Lineups
**Sweden**
- Forwards: Lucas Raymond, Elias Pettersson, Victor Olofsson, William Nylander, Adrian Kempe, Rasmus Asplund, Joel Eriksson Ek, Jakob Forsbacka Karlsson, Jesper Bratt
- Defencemen: Rasmus Dahlin, Victor Hedman, Erik Gustafsson, Anton Stralman, Hampus Lindholm
- Goaltenders: Linus Ullmark, Jesper Wallstedt
**Slovakia**
- Forwards: Juraj Slafkovsky, Tomas Tatar, Martin Fehervary, Peter Cehlarik, Pavol Regenda, Samuel Takac, Marian Studenic, Adam Bucik, Marko Dano
- Defencemen: Erik Cernak, Martin Marincin, Samuel Knazko, Mislav Rosandic, Marc Andre Gragnani
- Goaltenders: Patrik Rybar, Adam Huska
Prediction
Sweden is the favorite to win this game, but Slovakia has the potential to pull off an upset. It should be a close game, but Sweden should be able to win if they play to their potential.
