Canada vs Latvia 2025 World Junior Championship: Game preview, predictions, and odds | December 27, 2024

By Nestor Quixtan

Modified Dec 27, 2024 14:03 GMT

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The 2025 World Junior Championship continues as Canada and Latvia go head-to-head on Friday at the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa. The puck drop is set at 7:30 pm EST, with Canada looking to keep up its winning ways.

The Canadian squad shutout Finland in its opening game 4-0 on the strength of 31 saves from Carter George. Meanwhile, Friday night’s contest marks Latvia’s opening game of the 2025 World Junior Championship.

Canada vs Latvia: Head-to-head & key numbers

• Canada and Latvia have met four times at the World Juniors with Canada winning all four tilts.
• Canada has scored 41 total goals in the four games.
• Latvia has scored four goals against Canada in their four meetings.
• The last time the two teams met, Canada won 10-0.
• Macklin Celebrini had six points in the last game against Latvia.

Canada vs Latvia 2025 World Junior Championship: Preview

Canada enters the tournament as the betting favorite to take home the gold medal. The Canadian side has all but four players who’ve already been drafted into the NHL. The experience and overall talent level give Canada a decided edge over other clubs, except for the US and Sweden.

Canada’s 4-0 win over Finland in its tournament opener is an encouraging sign. Considering the history between Canada and Latvia, this contest could lend itself to a lopsided win for the Canadians.

As for Latvia, the European side will be making its 2025 World Juniors debut. They will be looking to improve upon the 10-0 rout in their last meeting with Canada. Nevertheless, Latvia will hope to get off to a strong start, potentially having a good showing in the tourney.

Canada vs Latvia: Odds & Prediction

Canada enters the matchup as the overwhelming favorite to take their second win of the 2025 World Junior Championship. Here’s a look at the current lines:

• Moneyline: Canada (n/a), Latvia +2,000.
• Puckline: Canada -5.5 (-110), Lavtia +5.5 (-110)
• Over/under: O7.5 (-108), U7.5 (-112)

Prediction: Most sportsbooks have Canada as the overwhelming favorite, in some cases, failing to provide moneyline odds. Canada will likely win the game with over 7.5 goals. Another double-digit win could be waiting for Canada.

Canada vs Latvia: Betting Tips

• Fans looking for an easy bet could take Canada in the moneyline, though a significant return should not be expected.
• While Canada should rout Latvia, a double-digit win should not be expected. Still, taking the over is virtually a lock.
• The spread favors Canada. So, expect Canada to win by at least a six-goal margin.
• Fans should avoid picking Latvia for a tournament upset. There are other games which could be better suited for an upset.