The quarterfinal matchup between Switzerland and Germany at the 2024 IIHF World Championship is a compelling clash of European hockey rivals. While Switzerland holds a higher position in the world rankings, Germany enters as the reigning vice-world champion, having proven last year that they can rise to the occasion in the playoffs—starting with a quarterfinal victory over Switzerland, who had finished first in their group without a single loss. Digging deeper, Germany also eliminated Switzerland in the 2021 World Championship quarterfinals and during Olympic qualifiers. Switzerland’s only recent bright spot was a shootout win in the 2022 group stage, but this rivalry has become a classic.
Under coach Patrick Fischer, Switzerland finished second in Group A this time, though they could have avoided Germany by losing to Finland in the final group game, which would have set up a meeting with the USA—hardly a more favorable opponent. Despite the runner-up spot, Switzerland impressed with consistent, disciplined hockey, beating every team except Canada. They led Canada but were derailed by a game-ending penalty to key forward Kevin Fiala. The Los Angeles Kings forward leads the team in goals (6), and together with Nico Hischier, the duo has 20 points. Roman Josi is the team’s top scorer with 3 goals and 8 assists.
Germany counters with discipline, excellent team chemistry, and individual skill. In the group stage, they played pragmatic hockey—offering little resistance in heavy losses to Sweden and the USA (both 1-6), but otherwise flawless. This sets up a tight contest, though bookmakers favor Switzerland.
**Odds:** Switzerland win – 1.44 to 1.54; Germany win – 4.85 to 5.83.