2025 IIHF Ice Hockey World Junior Championship: Latvia vs. Canada Preview

Date & Time: December 28, 2025, 7:30 p.m. EST
Venue: Canadian Tire Centre, Ottawa, Ontario
Broadcast: TSN, NHL Network, Max (Finland), Viaplay (Sweden)
Referees: Stano P. (Slovakia), Tscherrig M. (Switzerland)

A Look at Canada

Canada enters this matchup fresh off a dominant start to the tournament with a 4-0 shutout victory over Finland on Day 1. Gavin McKenna opened the scoring with a sensational goal, igniting the home crowd and setting the tone for the game. The Canadian defense and goaltending were equally impressive, with Carter George delivering a stellar 31-save shutout performance.

The host team is looking strong, showcasing a balanced attack and reliable defensive structure. If they maintain this level of play, Canada will be a formidable opponent throughout the tournament. Their roster is deep, skilled, and determined to capitalize on the home-ice advantage. Early goals will be key to maintaining momentum against a Latvian squad that thrives on discipline and hard work.

A Look at Latvia

Latvia faces a tough challenge in their tournament opener, taking on the motivated hosts. While the Latvians lack the star power of their opponents, they bring a cohesive and hardworking group to the ice. NHL prospects Darels Uljanskis (Anaheim Ducks) and Eriks Mateiko (Washington Capitals) are expected to lead the way for a team that reached the quarterfinals in last year’s championship.

Latvia’s roster is built on continuity and determination rather than flash. They’ll need to bring their best defensive game and capitalize on any mistakes by Canada to stay competitive. The Latvians could pose a threat if they catch the hosts off guard, especially early in the game.

Recent Form

Canada U20 Last 5 Matches:

• 27.12.24 (WCH): Canada 4-0 Finland ✓
• 24.12.24 (FI): Canada 3-2 Czech Republic ✓
• 22.12.24 (FI): Canada 4-2 Sweden ✓
• 20.12.24 (FI): Canada 7-1 Switzerland ✓
• 04.08.24 (FI): Canada 5-4 USA ✗

Latvia U20 Last 5 Matches:

• 24.12.24 (FI): Switzerland 5-1 Latvia ✗
• 21.12.24 (FI): Czech Republic 5-1 Latvia ✗
• 09.11.24 (FI): Austria 11-2 Latvia ✗
• 08.11.24 (FI): Latvia 3-5 Norway ✗
• 07.11.24 (FI): Latvia 4-1 Denmark ✓

Head-to-Head

Canada has dominated previous encounters with Latvia at the World Junior Championship. Their last meeting on December 28, 2023, ended in a 10-0 rout in favor of Canada. The Canadians have consistently demonstrated their superiority in these matchups, with a history of lopsided victories.

Prediction

Canada will aim to assert their dominance early, using their skill and depth to overwhelm Latvia. If the hosts can establish a strong lead in the opening period, it could spell trouble for the Latvians, who rely on keeping games close to compete.

Prediction: Canada 6-2 Latvia. Expect the Canadians to build on their strong start to the tournament and deliver another commanding performance in front of their home fans.