Who Will Claim the Ice Hockey World Title in 2020?

The World Championship has undergone minor and major rule changes over the years. In 1992, a playoff system was introduced with 12 teams in Division I and II. If there are 40 teams qualified for the IIHF, the rest play in Division III.

Apart from being a huge draw for fans, the World Championship is very popular among bettors as well. The Best Online Bookmakers 2019 https://bestsportsbooks.ca/best-online-bookmakers/ have already provided the odds for the biggest betting favorites. Russia, Canada, and Finland are the main favorites which was to be expected. Those who don’t want to spend money on outright favorites can nave a lot of fun predicting the winners of both divisions.

Last time around, Finland won its 3rd title. The absolute leader at the list of champions is Russia (Soviet Union) with 27 titles. Even though Finland’s win is still in the minds of their fans, Russia and Canada are expected to fight for the top in 202.

Russia and Canada – the Biggest Betting Favorites

Russia is really hoping for a new major ice hockey title. The Ruskies have won their last title in 2014 and they’re eager to finally land their 28th championship next year. However, bookies can’t seem to separate Russia and Canada as top betting favorites – they both have odds of 5/2. Canada won a pair of titles in 2015 and 2016. Since then, Sweden and Finland have won the past 3.

Even though they’re sitting comfortably at the top, Russia and Canada will definitely find it hard win. The World Championship is loaded with top-quality talent that makes it far more competitive than the past.

The same goes for Canada. If the Maple Leafs want another run at the title, they’ll need to be on top form.

Sweden

Everyone expected Finland as the next major favorite in line, but not bookies apparently. Available at 4/1, the Swedes are making a case for another run at the title. Sweden has had quite great results at the IIHF World Championships in the past decade. They missed out on the final last time and are said to be eager for another shot.

If you believe that Sweden can fight for a new title and repeat 2018 success, the odds of 4/1 look solid enough to us. More on the Swedes’ 2018 win here - https://sputniknews.com/sport/201805211064633275-sweden-wins-iihf-hockey/.

Finland and USA

Current world champions itself, Finland is not one of the biggest favorites for the title. As a matter of fact, Finland currently goes for 8/1 along with the USA. Although not a major betting favorite, the ice-cold Finns should never be written off. They won this year’s final against heavy favorites Canada, making those odds look just fine. You can learn more about Canada’s national ice-hockey team at the following link - http://www.eurohockey.com/country/126-finland.html.

When it comes to the Americans, they might have the best league but are far from the best in tournaments. Still without a title since 1960, the USA came close in 2018, when it finished third. No such luck in 2019, but if they play to their best, the Americans can win that elusive 3rd title.

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