Slovakia and Germany will meet in the quarterfinals of the 2026 Winter Olympics on Wednesday, with a semifinal berth on the line in what projects as one of the most evenly matched elimination games of the tournament.
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How to Watch Slovakia vs Germany
Feb 17, 2026; Milan, Italy; John Peterka of Germany celebrates with Moritz Seider of Germany after scoring their third goal during a men’s ice hockey qualification playoff game during the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images
- When: Wednesday, February 18, 2026
- Time: 6:10 a.m. ET
- TV channel: Peacock Exclusive
- Live stream: Peacock (Watch Live)
Slovakia enters the quarterfinal round after finishing among the middle seeds following preliminary play. The Slovaks have relied on a fast transition game and disciplined defensive positioning, allowing fewer high-danger chances while generating offense off controlled entries. Slovakia’s offense has been driven by balanced scoring rather than one dominant line, which has helped them stay competitive against deeper rosters.
Germany has leaned on physical play and defensive structure throughout the tournament. Germany’s penalty kill has been a strength, helping them stay in tight, low-scoring games. Their ability to limit neutral-zone turnovers and control pace has made them difficult to play against in elimination situations, where one mistake can decide the outcome.
Top Players to Watch
Slovakia Forward Juraj Slafkovský provides size and scoring ability on the wing and is often tasked with creating offense off the rush. Martin Pospisil adds energy and physical play in the middle six, while defenseman Šimon Nemec anchors the blue line with strong puck movement and transition passing.
Goaltending will also be a major factor, as Slovakia’s ability to stay disciplined defensively often allows its goalie to settle into a rhythm early.
Germany’s attack is led by NHL forwards Tim Stützle and Moritz Seider, who drive play at both ends of the ice. Stützle brings elite speed and creativity, while Seider logs heavy minutes as Germany’s top defenseman and plays a key role on both special teams units.
Veteran leadership from Leon Draisaitl gives Germany a proven scoring threat in high-pressure moments, and the German lineup typically performs best when its top players control puck possession and tempo.
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