Finland vs. Switzerland Prediction & Best Bets Today: Olympic Hockey Quarterfinal Preview
The defending Olympic champions look to advance to the semifinals for the fourth time in the last five attempts, and my Finland vs. Switzerland prediction and best bets analyze its chances of doing so.
Finland is the -240 moneyline betting favorite, which doesn't provide enough value to pull the trigger on. That's why I've turned to the puck line, backing the Finns to win by at least two goals. As Finland continues its quest to win a medal at four straight best-on-best Olympics, I'm also featuring an unlikely, yet potentially profitable player prop. Today's quarterfinal starts at 12:10 p.m. ET (Peacock, CBC Gem).
🏒 Finland vs. Switzerland picks & odds: Feb. 18
Our expert Olympic hockey picks are based on the latest betting odds at the best sports betting sites.
| Bet type | Prediction | Units | Confidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Game prediction | Finland -1.5 (+118) | 1u -> 1.18u | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Over/Under total | Over 5 (-115) | 0.5u -> 0.43u | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Player prop bet | Joe Armia anytime goal (+700) | 0.5u -> 3.5u | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Total wagered: 2 units | Max profit: 5.11 units
💰 Finland vs. Switzerland best bet: Finland -1.5 (+118)
Finland has looked every part a medal contender since finding its groove in the second game of the tournament against Sweden. I love their offensive balance and chemistry, along with solid defensive players throughout the lineup. Five players have two goals, tied for the team lead.
The most important factor in Finland's continued success, though, is Juuse Saros, who has been excellent. Saros has a 1.34 goals-against average and 0.946 save percentage. While Switzerland has exceeded expectations, I believe it's the end of the road for a team that is outmatched by its opponent in every position. I'd play this bet to +110.
Score prediction: Finland 4, Switzerland 2
🔥 Best Finland vs. Switzerland prop bet: Joel Armia anytime goal (+700)
Taking a swing for the fences, I'm backing the hot hand to strike again. Armia has two goals, tied for the team lead with four other players. The Los Angeles Kings right winger also leads the team with 12 shots on goal.
Not bad for a player who has only 10 goals in 51 NHL games this season. I like how Armia is playing; he is a perfect fit on the fourth line, dominating with his physical presence, which facilitates scoring chances. He's a skillful grinder, an ideal prototype to score against a Switzerland team that is made up of similar players.
💡 How I'm betting Finland vs. Switzerland
I like Finland to win by at least two goals for various reasons: First, they have a deeper squad and will be able to roll four lines consistently. That should eventually wear down a Swiss team that played Tuesday against Italy in the playoff qualifier.
Switzerland's No. 1 goaltender Leonardo Genoni has played in three of four games, all of which were wins. The 38-year-old has been exceptional for his country, and I don't expect him to run out of gas, per se.
However, a one-goal Finland advantage in the dying stages could be very much on the cards. An empty-netter would guarantee a successful spread bet. Both teams are solid defensively, which is why I went with the lower total of 5. In total, I'm wagering 2 units, putting one on my most confident bet.
What is the puck line for Finland vs. Switzerland?
| Team | Puck line |
|---|---|
| Finland | -1.5 (+118) |
| Switzerland | +1.5 (-145) |
📺 How to watch Finland vs. Switzerland
- Date: Wednesday, Feb. 18
- Puck drop: 12:10 p.m. ET
- Location: RHO Arena (Milan, Italy)
- TV: CBC Gem, Peacock
📃 Affiliate disclosure
Sportsbook Review may receive a commission if you sign up through our links. Not intended for use in MA. Bonuses not applicable in Ontario. 21+ only. (Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER)
Related Articles
