| Moneyline Pick | USA |
| Player Prop | Auston Matthews over 0.5 goals |
| Same Game Parlay | Slovakia +2.5 + Under 5.5 goals + Quinn Hughes over 0.5 points |
| Check Live Odds | |
USA vs Slovakia Main Match Info
- Date and Time: Friday, February 20, 2026, 3:10 PM EST
- Arena: Santa Giulia Ice Hockey Arena
- Location: Milan, Italy
- Last match: USA 4:5 Slovakia (May 13, 2024, World Championships)
USA vs Slovakia Moneyline Prediction
- Moneyline Pick: USA
The USA were one of three teams that needed overtime to secure their berth in the semifinals and arguably faced the toughest test of all the advancing sides. They clinched their spot with a 2-1 overtime victory over Sweden – thanks to a goal from Quinn Hughes at the 3:27 mark of extra time.
Meanwhile, Slovakia were the only squad that cruised to an easy quarterfinal win, defeating Germany 6-2. Pavol Regenda led the way with two goals and three points, while Dalibor Dvorsky, Patrik Koch, and Oliver Okuliar each recorded two points.
The Slovaks have been the tournament’s biggest surprise, and the victory over Germany allowed them to reach the Olympic semis for the first time in history.
Hug(e)hes hugs all around tonight 🇺🇸 #WinterOlympics pic.twitter.com/TttMcNJA4v
— USA Hockey (@usahockey) February 18, 2026
However, their Cinderella run is about to end. Even though Slovakia have proven they can beat higher-ranked opponents, they struggled against Sweden in the group stage (L 5-3).
Facing Team USA presents an even greater challenge, and they might not have the experience or quality to slow down their offence. Expect the Americans to be pushed, but ultimately, they should come out on top.
USA vs Slovakia Player Prop
- Prop Bet: Auston Matthews over 0.5 goals
Auston Matthews failed to score in the 2-1 quarterfinal win over Sweden, but the Toronto Maple Leafs star should be the USA’s biggest offensive threat in this matchup. Leading the team in goals (three) and points (six) in the Olympics, he should play a prominent role on offence against the Slovaks, who are likely to adopt a more defensive approach in hopes of pulling off an upset.
USA vs Slovakia Same Game Parlay
- SGP: Slovakia +2.5 + Under 5.5 goals + Quinn Hughes over 0.5 points
Even though the USA should win this contest, don’t expect a blowout. The Stars and Stripes had to work hard to get past Sweden in the quarterfinals and haven’t looked convincing throughout the tournament.
Slovakia could very well cover the +2.5 spread, something they already did against Sweden in their lone defeat of the tournament.
A low-scoring game is also a realistic scenario. As good as the USA can be on attack, they’ve yet to reach top gear. Slovakia, meanwhile, can do a proper job of crowding the defensive zone to limit their spaces.
American Hero Quinn Hughes:
“I love the U.S.”
“It’s the greatest country in the world. Happy to represent it here with these guys and it’s really special.”pic.twitter.com/OwVEhRjWSf
— Cole Bagley (@BagleyKSLsports) February 19, 2026
The presence of elite goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, on the other hand, reduces the Slovaks’ potential to score.
Last but not least, one player to keep an eye on is Quinn Hughes. The defender posted two points in the win over Sweden (one goal, one assist) and leads all defencemen in the tournament so far with six points, including five helpers. Look for him to crack the scoresheet again.
USA vs Slovakia Team News
USA Team News
Team USA aren’t dealing with any significant injuries, as their entire roster has remained healthy after their first four games.
The only real question for the American squad is who will start in goal, but it would be shocking if anyone other than Connor Hellebuyck gets the nod. The Winnipeg Jets’ netminder is one of the NHL’s best and should have absolute trust from the coaching staff.
Slovakia Team News
Slovakia haven’t reported any absences and are unlikely to make major adjustments after their emphatic win over Germany in the quarterfinals.
Expect Samuel Hlavaj, a prospect in the Minnesota Wild organization, to remain as the starting goaltender for the Slovak side. When it comes to players to watch, Juraj Slafkovsky has stolen the show and is currently leading the team in goals (three), assists (four), and total points (seven). Dalibor Dvorsky (three goals, six points) is another player worth keeping close tabs on.
USA vs Slovakia: Where to Watch (USA)
- Watch on TSN, RDS, CBC/Radio-USA
- Stream on TSN+
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