Published Feb 12, 3:13am ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Feb 12, 3:13am ET
Credit: Shutterstock
Updated Feb 12, 3:13am ET
Crucial action in Group B at the Winter Olympics is set for Feb 13, as Sweden bid to record a second straight win when they take on Scandinavian rivals Finland.
The Swedes wasted little time in flexing their muscles on the ice in Milan, cruising to a dominant win over host nation Italy.
However, there was a disappointing start to the Olympics for Finland, and they will now have huge pressure on their two remaining Group B games.
Finland will have a mountain to climb in Group B following an opening night loss against Slovakia.
Despite having a deep roster of talent, the nation failed to work well as a team, and were defensively vulnerable throughout their latest clash on Wednesday. Slovakia broke through at ease to record a 4-1 win, with three of their efforts coming in the final period.
Finland currently sit bottom of the Group B standings, and only a victory will likely keep their hopes alive of an automatic spot in the quarterfinals.
Sweden flexed their muscles in their opening game at the Winter Olympics, recording a comprehensive 5-2 victory against Italy.
Despite being the unfavored team in the arena, Sweden’s high-quality players proved crucial in the win. The Swedes netted twice in the opening period, before pulling clear in the final period after netting two further goals.
The victory means that Sweden now sit top of the Group B standings, and a victory on Friday would effectively secure their spot in the quarterfinals.
| TOTAL | Finland | Sweden | DRAWS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WINS | 115 | 57 | 56 | - |
| GOALS | 536 | 276 | 260 |
Sweden have won four of the five head-to-head meetings between the nations at the Olympics. That could be a key angle to consider this Friday, especially given the excellent performance they showed on opening night against Italy.
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Pick
Sweden
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