2025 World Juniors: Medal Round Set After Thrilling Quarterfinals

OTTAWA — The stage is set for an exciting medal round at the 2025 World Juniors! After a five-game slate that included the quarterfinals and the relegation game, The Athletic’s on-site prospects writers, Corey Pronman and Scott Wheeler, have delivered their standout moments, notes, and analysis.

Latvia Makes History, Earns All-Star Recognition

Latvia emerged as one of the tournament’s biggest surprises, securing their best-ever performance with two wins. Eriks Mateiko, a Capitals prospect, shone brightly, scoring both Latvia’s goals in their quarterfinal loss to Sweden and finishing the tournament with five goals in five games. Linards Feldbergs, Latvia’s goalie, also deserves recognition for his stellar performance, stopping 47 shots in the quarterfinal and posting a .929 save percentage for the tournament.

“Mateiko looks like a potential future bottom-six NHLer. He’s listed at 6-foot-6 now, he plays his heart out and his skating has made enough progress to give him a real chance,” observes Scott Wheeler.

While both Mateiko and Feldbergs are ineligible to return next year, Latvia’s young team has reason to be optimistic for the future.

USA’s Top Line Explodes Against Switzerland

The USA’s top line, consisting of James Hagens, Gabe Perreault, and Ryan Leonard, finally delivered a breakout performance in their quarterfinal encounter against Switzerland. Zeev Buium, their star defenseman, also flourished with a goal and a commanding presence on the ice.

“We’ve been waiting for this line and Zeev to have a huge game, and the quarterfinal against Switzerland was that game. Buium in particular was buzzing all night long,” says Corey Pronman. “Leonard was chosen as USA’s player of the game.

Czechia Continues Reign of Dominance

Czechia once again proved their strength on the international stage, securing their third consecutive World Junior medal and setting themselves up for a potential fourth-straight medal. Their depth shines through with multiple strong forward lines and defense pairings.

“This group has three strong forward lines and three legit D pairings. Eduard Sale, Jakub Stancl, Petr Sikora and others have all had really nice showings in Ottawa,” notes Scott Wheeler. Michael Hrabal has been exceptional in net, solidifying their position as a favourite.

(Photo of Brayden Yager and Gavin McKenna: Mathias Bergeld / Sipa via AP Images)

Don’t miss out on any more up-to-the-minute action and analysis from the 2025 World Juniors. Stay tuned for continued coverage!