The 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship continues with an exciting matchup between Canada and Germany. Slated to take place at the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, this highly anticipated game will commence at 7:30 p.m. EST and is set to be broadcast on multiple platforms, including NHL Network (USA), TSN4 (Canada), Magenta Sport (Germany), Max (Finland), and SVT Play/SVT (Sweden).
Game Details
- Matchup: Canada vs Germany
- Time: 7:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST)
- Venue: Canadian Tire Centre, Ottawa, ON
- TV Coverage: NHL Network (USA), TSN4 (Canada), Max (Finland), TV10 (Sweden), TV5 (Finland), Viaplay (Sweden), XSport (Ukraine)
- Live stream: Watch here
Canada enters this game with a lineup brimming with talent. Their roster includes standout players like Brayden Yager and Gavin McKenna, who have showcased their skills in earlier games. Yager, the team captain, has been generating opportunities with his puck control and vision. However, the Canadians will be looking for him to convert those chances into goals. Similarly, McKenna’s consistent explosiveness on the ice needs to translate into tangible results on the scoreboard.
Easton Cowan has been the most productive forward for Canada so far, being the only player with more than a single point through the first two games. While the team has yet to hit its stride offensively, this game against Germany presents a prime opportunity to amp up their scoring and gain momentum for the later stages of the tournament.
Rallying Without Matthew Schaefer
Despite their firepower, Canada faces a significant setback with the loss of Matthew Schaefer. The 17-year-old defenseman had been a linchpin on the blue line, playing beyond his years and leading the team from the back. Unfortunately, Schaefer’s tournament came to an abrupt end due to a collarbone injury. His absence will undoubtedly be felt, but the team could use this as a rallying point to fuel their performance.
On the defensive end, Canada’s goaltending duo of Carter George and Jack Ivankovic has shown promise. Ivankovic, the second 17-year-old goaltender to represent Canada in this tournament since Jimmy Waite in 1987, and George, who already boasts a shutout, will be critical in providing the clutch performances Canada might need as they advance.
Germany’s Uphill Battle
For Germany, the tournament has been a struggle so far, with losses to Team USA and Finland. They now face a formidable challenge against Canada. One bright spot for Germany is Julius Sumpf, their assistant captain and a player familiar to Canadian junior hockey fans. Sumpf, currently playing his second season in the QMJHL with the Moncton Wildcats, has been a standout with his above-point-per-game performance. While he remains undrafted in the NHL, a strong showing in this tournament could elevate his profile.
Prediction: Canada Dominates
With their superior depth and talent, Canada is heavily favored in this matchup. While Germany may have moments of brilliance, particularly from players like Sumpf, it’s hard to envision them containing Canada’s relentless attack. Expect Canada to come out firing, using this game as a chance to refine their offensive game and build momentum.
Predicted Score: Canada 8 – Germany 2
As the World Juniors progress, this game will serve as a litmus test for Canada’s readiness to contend for the championship. For fans tuning in, it promises to be an action-packed affair filled with skill, speed, and intensity.