The 2025 IIHF Women’s World Championship gets underway on Wednesday, and one of the favorites looks to start things off on the right foot, as the United States takes on Finland. Watch women’s hockey on FuboTV (7-day free trial) After losing in the gold medal game on home ice, you know the United States is hungry to get revenge this time around. Like last year, there is a healthy mix of veterans and young stars. While captain Hilary Knight, Kendall Coyne Schofield and Megan Keller are back, a ton of talented players who have been dominating the college ranks will be the key to the Americans’ success. Led by last year’s world championship MVP, Laila Edwards, the U.S. is showing that the future is now with fellow Wisconsin Badgers Kirsten Simms, Caroline Harvey and Patty Kazmaier Award winner Casey O’Brien ready to be big-time players. Almost forgot to mention Minnesota’s Abbey Murphy, who finished second in the NCAA in goals (33) behind Edwards. The Finns were finally able to end a three-year medal-less drought in Utica, beating Czechia to win the bronze. Now, the team is back, hoping to stay in the medal conversation. They have the offensive talent to make it as far as the semifinals with a couple of key pieces on the back end. While many have criticized how New York Sirens coach Greg Fargo has used her this season, you know Noora Tulus has the ability to be a big-time player for the Lady Lions. They also have the three top scorers in the SDHL. Petra Nieminen led the league with 25 goals and tied for first with 45 points, while Luleå HF teammate Viivi Vainkiika finished third with 44 points. Elisa Holopainen had a big year with Frolunda, helping the team with the SDHL title while finishing tied with Nieminen with 45 points. Oh, did I forget to mention that Fleet star Susanna Tapani is quietly tied for fifth in the PWHL in goals? Yeah, she’s due for a big tournament as well. IIHF WOMEN’S WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP Finland vs. United States When: Wednesday, April 9 Time: 9 a.m. ET Where: Budvar Arena (České Budějovice, Czechia) Channel: NHL Network Stream: FuboTV (Free Trial), Sling, DirecTV Stream