Tag: Champions Hockey League

Helminen’s firm message precedes SaiPa’s derby overtime win

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

SaiPa produced a marked improvement on Saturday after head coach Raimo Helminen addressed the dressing room at the first intermission, centre Mikko Perttu said. KooKoo controlled the opening period and scored first early in the second, but SaiPa found an equaliser late in the period before Samuli Niinisaari settled the contest 2-1 in overtime. Perttu, who joined SaiPa from JYP for the current season, has recorded 2+7=9 in eight appearances for his new club when CHL matches are included. The Saturday win followed SaiPa’s 4-0 victory in Friday’s Kaakko derby, completing a weekend sweep. Goaltender Kari Piiroinen made 33 saves for SaiPa, while KooKoo’s Eetu Randelin stopped 41 shots.

Key Facts

  • Mikko Perttu said Raimo Helminen delivered “quite a strict message” in the dressing room at the first intermission.
  • SaiPa beat KooKoo in Saturday’s derby, with Samuli Niinisaaren scoring the 2-1 overtime winner.
  • SaiPa also won Friday’s Kaakko derby 4-0, giving them victories in both derby meetings that weekend.
  • Kari Piiroinen made 33 saves for SaiPa on Saturday; KooKoo’s Eetu Randelin made 41 saves.
  • KooKoo controlled the opening period and scored the game’s first goal early in the second period.
  • SaiPa levelled late in the second period after sustained pressure and several high-quality chances.
  • Mikko Perttu played several seasons for JYP before joining SaiPa for the current season.
  • Perttu centres a line with wingers Patrik Siikanen and Janne Naukkarinen; the trio have displayed rapid chemistry.
  • Including CHL fixtures, Perttu has accumulated 2+7=9 points in eight appearances for SaiPa.

IHM Discussion

SaiPa’s response after the first intermission was the defining shift in Saturday’s derby. Perttu did not disclose the details of Helmisen’s address, but described it as “quite a strict message”. After a slow start, SaiPa generated sustained pressure and several high-quality chances before levelling late in the second period.

Perttu’s early production has added substance to SaiPa’s attack. Playing between Patrik Siikanen and Janne Naukkarinen, he has recorded 2+7=9 in eight appearances when CHL matches are included. Perttu said the trio read each other well despite his previous experience with only Siikanen.

Goaltending also shaped a tight contest. Piiroinen made 33 saves for SaiPa and Randelin 41 for KooKoo before Niinisaari’s overtime winner completed SaiPa’s second derby victory of the weekend.

Why It Matters

The weekend sweep gives SaiPa two derby wins over KooKoo and highlights its capacity to recover from a difficult opening period. Perttu’s 2+7=9 in eight appearances when CHL matches are included is an encouraging early return, while his line with Siikanen and Naukkarinen has shown promising chemistry. In a one-goal game, Piiroinen’s 33 saves were also central to keeping SaiPa within reach.

Mini Q&A

Who scored the winning goal for SaiPa on Saturday?

Samuli Niinisaaren scored the overtime winner for SaiPa to make it 2-1.

What did coach Raimo Helminen do at the first intermission?

According to Mikko Perttu, Helminen gave a “quite strict message” in the dressing room at the first intermission.

What are Mikko Perttu’s point totals for SaiPa so far?

When CHL matches are included, Perttu has recorded 2 goals and 7 assists – 2+7=9 – in eight appearances for SaiPa.

Who were Perttu’s linemates on the productive line?

Perttu’s linemates were wingers Patrik Siikanen and Janne Naukkarinen.

How many saves did the goaltenders make?

SaiPa’s Kari Piiroinen made 33 saves; KooKoo’s Eetu Randelin made 41 saves.

Where did Mikko Perttu play before joining SaiPa?

Perttu spent several seasons with JYP before moving to SaiPa for the current season.

Coach Mark Comment

SaiPa’s improvement after the first intermission underlines the value of a clear reset when a team has started slowly. The important coaching task is to pair urgency with simple, executable details, so players can turn a message into more sustained pressure and better puck play.

IHM Final View

SaiPa’s weekend sweep of the Kaakko derbies was built on a 4-0 win on Friday and a resilient 2-1 overtime result on Saturday. Perttu’s productive start, the early promise of his line and strong goaltending are positives as SaiPa continues its Liiga season.

EHL 2026/27 confirmed at 40 games as finances take priority

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

The NIHF board has decided that the EliteHockey Ligaen (EHL) 2026/27 season will be played as a 40-game regular season for each club. The existing match pattern will largely remain, but Sparta’s fixtures have been removed and a small adjustment will ensure every team plays 20 home games and 20 away games. Because the EHL will have nine clubs in 2026/27, there will be no relegation: the club finishing ninth after the regular season will retain its place in the EHL for 2027/28, while the winner of the HockeyLiga 1 playoff will be promoted.

The decision followed consideration of several alternatives, including a 48-game format. Petter Salsten, NIHF general secretary, said the choice of 40 games came after a difficult assessment with less than 48 hours until the season start. The federation also cited practical and financial uncertainty around a longer calendar, including challenges for Storhamar‘s Champions Hockey League participation. A majority of clubs preferred the 40-game solution. NIHF will publish the adjusted match schedule once it is finalised.

Key Facts

  • The NIHF board today approved a 40-game regular season for EHL 2026/27, with each club to play 40 league matches.
  • The current match pattern will largely continue, but Sparta’s matches are removed from the schedule.
  • All teams will play 20 home games and 20 away games after a minor adjustment to the fixture list.
  • EHL will consist of nine clubs in 2026/27; therefore, no team will be relegated at season end.
  • The club finishing ninth in the table will keep its place in the EHL for 2027/28; the winner of the HockeyLiga 1 playoff will be promoted.
  • NIHF considered a 48-game alternative but rejected it because of practical and economic uncertainties.
  • A 48-game series would have required eight additional playing days per club and posed problems with limited ice availability and other fixed calendars.
  • NIHF highlighted significant challenges for Storhamar’s Champions Hockey League (CHL) participation if a 48-game schedule with eight extra matchdays were implemented.
  • Compensation schemes for additional matches were discussed in the process but the scope and funding of any such schemes were unresolved.
  • Petter Salsten, Generalsekretær in NIHF, said the decision followed a difficult assessment with less than 48 hours until the season start.
  • A majority of clubs favoured the 40-game option.
  • NIHF will send out further information when the adjusted match schedule is ready.

IHM Discussion

The NIHF has chosen a shorter, more financially manageable season rather than expand the calendar amid uncertainty over costs and practical delivery. A 48-game format would have required eight additional playing days per club, while limited ice availability and fixed schedules in other competitions added to the pressure ahead of the season start.

The federation also pointed to the importance of club finances following the Sparta case and said an expanded EHL schedule should not make the competition more expensive to run without confidence in clubs’ financial sustainability. Storhamar’s Champions Hockey League programme was another significant complication under a 48-game model.

The revised format retains a balanced 20 home games and 20 away games for every club. Sparta’s fixtures will be removed, with NIHF to issue the adjusted schedule when it is ready.

Why It Matters

The decision puts financial stability ahead of a longer regular season. NIHF cited uncertainty over the practical and economic consequences of adding games, while proposed compensation arrangements had not been defined or funded.

With nine clubs in the EHL, the team finishing ninth will retain its place for 2027/28, while the HockeyLiga 1 playoff winner will still be promoted. The 20-home, 20-away split also gives every club the same number of home dates in the revised schedule.

For Storhamar, avoiding the additional eight matchdays removes a major scheduling concern alongside Champions Hockey League commitments.

Mini Q&A

How many regular-season games will each EHL club play in 2026/27?

Each club will play 40 regular-season games: 20 at home and 20 away.

Why did the NIHF reject a 48-game season?

The NIHF rejected 48 games because of practical and economic uncertainties, including the need for eight extra playing days per club, limited ice availability, clashes with other fixed calendars and unresolved compensation funding. The federation also cited specific complications for Storhamar’s Champions Hockey League participation.

Will any team be relegated from the EHL in 2026/27?

No. With nine clubs in the EHL for 2026/27, no team will be relegated; the club finishing ninth will remain in the league for 2027/28. Promotion from HockeyLiga 1 will continue via the playoff winner.

What happened to Sparta’s fixtures?

Sparta’s matches were removed from the current match pattern as part of the adjustments the NIHF announced.

When will the updated fixture list be released?

NIHF said it will send out further information and the adjusted schedule as soon as it is ready, but no specific date was given.

What Comes Next

NIHF will distribute the adjusted match schedule once the revised fixture list is ready. No specific release date has been given.

IHM Final View

The NIHF board has opted for a pragmatic 40-game EHL season in response to financial and scheduling uncertainty. The format preserves a balanced 20-home, 20-away split while avoiding the eight additional matchdays required by a 48-game calendar. With compensation arrangements still unresolved and Storhamar’s CHL programme among the scheduling concerns, the federation has prioritised a workable season structure.

Skellefteå AIK unbeaten and through to CHL Playoffs after Game Day 4

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Skellefteå AIK have made an unbeaten start to the 2026/27 Champions Hockey League season and secured qualification for the CHL Playoffs after Game Day 4. They opened with a 6-1 win over Slovak champions HK Nitra, won at Adler Mannheim, beat Genève-Servette 3-2 in a rematch of the 2024 CHL Final, and defeated HC Davos 6-2 in a clash of two unbeaten teams.

Key Facts

  • Skellefteå AIK were unbeaten in four CHL games and had not dropped a point through Game Day 4.
  • Skellefteå opened their CHL campaign with a 6-1 win over Slovak champions HK Nitra.
  • Skellefteå beat Adler Mannheim away in the SAP Arena.
  • Skellefteå reversed the 2024 CHL Final result by beating Genève-Servette 3-2 on Game Day 3.
  • Skellefteå defeated HC Davos 6-2 on Game Day 4 in a clash of two previously unbeaten teams.

IHM Discussion

Skellefteå AIK’s unbeaten start has combined emphatic scoring with the ability to win in different settings. The 6-1 opening result against HK Nitra set the tone, while the victory at Adler Mannheim showed they could deliver away from home.

Their 3-2 win over Genève-Servette reversed the scoreline from the 2024 CHL Final, and the 6-2 defeat of HC Davos on Game Day 4 underlined their scoring threat. With Davos also unbeaten before that meeting, Skellefteå have put together one of the competition’s strongest opening runs.

Why It Matters

Early qualification gives Skellefteå a place in the CHL Playoffs with Game Days 5 and 6 still to come. Their results have shown they can score heavily and win away from home, useful markers as the competition moves towards its knockout phase.

Mini Q&A

Had Skellefteå AIK secured a CHL Playoff place after Game Day 4?

Yes. Skellefteå AIK had secured a place in the CHL Playoffs after Game Day 4.

What were Skellefteå AIK’s highlighted results?

Skellefteå opened with a 6-1 win over HK Nitra, won at Adler Mannheim, beat Genève-Servette 3-2 in a rematch of the 2024 CHL Final, and defeated HC Davos 6-2.

Coach Mark Comment

Skellefteå have paired decisive scoring with results in different environments. That balance matters in European competition, where a team must be able to manage tight road games as well as take control when momentum is available.

What Comes Next

The Champions Hockey League returns for Game Days 5 and 6 in early October. Skellefteå will look to maintain their unbeaten run before the playoffs.

IHM Final View

Skellefteå AIK have set an early CHL standard with four unbeaten games, including convincing wins over HK Nitra and HC Davos. Their playoff place is already secure, but Game Days 5 and 6 offer another chance to carry that momentum forward.

Roger Rönnberg reaches 100-game Champions Hockey League coaching milestone

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Roger Rönnberg reached a landmark 100th game as a Head Coach in the Champions Hockey League when his current side, Fribourg-Gottéron, hosted Czech club HC Pilsen in Switzerland. Rönnberg, who has been involved in the CHL for more than a decade, was honoured on the ice before puck drop. The veteran coach previously won the European Trophy on four occasions while in charge of Frölunda Gothenburg.

Key Facts

  • Roger Rönnberg reached 100 games as a Head Coach in the Champions Hockey League.
  • The milestone occurred while Fribourg-Gottéron hosted HC Pilsen in Switzerland.
  • Rönnberg has coached in the CHL for over a decade.
  • He lifted the European Trophy four times during his spell with Frölunda Gothenburg.
  • He was commemorated on the ice ahead of puck drop.

IHM Discussion

The 100-game landmark underlines Roger Rönnberg’s long-standing presence in Europe’s biggest club competition. His four European Trophy wins during his time with Frölunda Gothenburg remain a defining part of his coaching record.

As the first coach to reach 100 CHL games, Rönnberg now holds a notable place in the competition’s history. The pre-game on-ice commemoration reflected the significance of that cumulative achievement.

Why It Matters

Milestones such as this matter beyond the personal honour. They highlight the continuity of coaching at the top level of European club hockey and provide a benchmark against which future coaches will be measured. For Fribourg-Gottéron, having a coach with extensive CHL experience can shape preparations and in-game management across congested phases of the season. For the competition, a visible milestone helps build narrative and tradition: anniversaries and records contribute to the CHL’s identity as a tournament with its own careers and legacies.

Kölner Haie crowd breaks Champions Hockey League attendance record

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

A Champions Hockey League attendance record was set in Cologne when 18,104 spectators attended the Kölner Haie v Frölunda Gothenburg match. The figure surpasses the previous CHL record of 14,567, a mark that dated back to 7 December 2016 when SC Bern hosted Sparta Prague in the 2016/17 quarter-finals; that earlier record had stood for nearly ten years.

Key Facts

  • A crowd of 18,104 attended the Champions Hockey League match between Kölner Haie and Frölunda Gothenburg in Cologne, Germany.
  • The 18,104 figure established a new all-time Champions Hockey League attendance record.
  • The new total surpassed the previous CHL attendance record of 14,567 spectators.
  • The former record of 14,567 was set on 7 December 2016 when SC Bern hosted Sparta Prague in the Quarter-Finals of the 2016/17 CHL season.
  • The previous record had stood for nearly ten years.

IHM Discussion

The headline number – 18,104 – is notable within the Champions Hockey League context. It replaces a mark that had stood since December 2016. Kölner Haie and Frölunda Gothenburg were the teams involved in the fixture in Cologne, Germany. The previous high of 14,567 came when SC Bern hosted Sparta Prague in a 2016/17 quarter-final.

Why It Matters

Numbers of this scale are relevant to organisers, host arenas and participating clubs because they reflect the potential for larger one-off crowds in the competition. For the clubs involved, the result also offers a moment of public profile: Kölner Haie and Frölunda Gothenburg were the named participants in the match that produced the new high.

Why Liiga is taking an early break – Jussi Markkanen explains

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

SM-liiga’s much-discussed ‘super season’, which began only a week ago, will already break for almost a week because the coming weekend is reserved for Champions Hockey League matches. After Wednesday’s big round, Liiga games will not resume until next Tuesday.

Key Facts

  • The SM-liiga season began a week before the interview and will take an almost week-long pause this week.
  • After Wednesday’s big round, Liiga matches will restart next Tuesday.
  • Liiga sports director Jussi Markkanen answered questions about the schedule.
  • The upcoming weekend is reserved for CHL matches under an agreement between Liiga and the CHL.
  • The CHL weekend pauses all leagues; Liiga is most affected because other leagues begin next week.
  • Liiga was granted an exception to play during the CHL’s first weekend because of this season’s special circumstances and high game count.
  • Liiga is committed to the CHL and regards the existing agreement as appropriate; Markkanen said he does not see a need for further discussion on how CHL matches should be played.
  • Liiga expects the total number of matches to fall in future seasons; the league began the regular season earlier (1 September) and will end the regular season slightly later (23 March) so player workloads remain essentially unchanged from previous years.
  • Markkanen described the schedule-making task as a normal, annual puzzle and noted pressures such as new arenas hosting many other events and the Jyväskylä arena renovation.

IHM Discussion

The interruption so early in the campaign is a scheduling consequence of Liiga’s commitment to the CHL and the practical demands of fitting a longer, busier season into a crowded calendar. Markkanen presents the pause as an element of a negotiated calendar rather than a fault line: Liiga accepted the CHL agreement and even obtained a one-off exemption to play during CHL’s opening weekend. That exception underlines the flexibility applied this year to accommodate what the league calls a ‘special’ season with an elevated number of fixtures.

Markkanen’s emphasis on starting earlier (1 September) and finishing the regular season later (23 March) is an explicit attempt to keep individual player loads steady despite the expanded overall programme. He frames the calendar as a balancing act: by moving the envelope of the season outward, the league aims to avoid increasing per-player game counts versus prior years. At the same time, practical constraints complicate scheduling. New arenas bring event competition, and the renovation at Jyväskylä’s rink imposes local pressures that the league has had to factor in.

Why It Matters

The pause affects teams’ competitive rhythms and preparation plans. For clubs with CHL commitments, the weekend is devoted to continental fixtures, shaping training and travel arrangements. The break also interrupts a short run of league fixtures. Markkanen insists this is a planned element of the season structure, not a symptom of poor scheduling, and that the arrangement should not increase player workload once the full schedule is complete. Fans and clubs will still be watching how the timing works in practice, particularly with arenas hosting competing events and local infrastructure projects adding pressure to the calendar.

Mini Q&A

Why does Liiga pause for almost a week so early in the season?

The coming weekend is reserved for Champions Hockey League (CHL) matches under an agreement between Liiga and the CHL, so the leagues pause for that weekend, Markkanen said.

How could Liiga play last week while the CHL was already running?

Liiga negotiated an exception to play during the CHL’s first weekend because this is a special season with a large number of games, Markkanen said.

Will this season increase player workload?

No; Markkanen said the league started earlier (1 September) and will finish the regular season a bit later (23 March) so player load should remain essentially identical to previous years.

Is Liiga considering changing how CHL matches are scheduled?

Markkanen said Liiga is committed to the CHL and regards the existing agreement as good; he did not see a need for further discussion on how CHL matches should be played.

Coach Mark Comment

From a coaching perspective, an early break in the league calendar requires a clear plan. Teams can use the time to manage recovery and revisit details, but they must also retain enough intensity to return sharp for the next league round. Practice loads should reflect each group’s recent schedule, with CHL travel and fixtures adding a further consideration for the clubs involved.

What Comes Next

After Wednesday’s scheduled round of matches, SM-liiga’s domestic games will pause for the CHL weekend and resume the following Tuesday. The league began the regular season on 1 September and plans for the regular season to finish on 23 March, measures Markkanen says will keep individual player workloads comparable to previous seasons.

IHM Final View

Liiga’s short, early pause is a direct outcome of its CHL commitment and the practicalities of fitting an expanded season into busy arenas’ calendars. Jussi Markkanen presents the arrangement as negotiated and deliberate: an exception was secured for the CHL’s opening weekend, the season window has been widened to protect player load, and the league views the schedule as a routine but complex annual puzzle. The real test will be how teams manage the stop-start rhythm in practice, and whether the stretched calendar achieves the intended effect of preserving player welfare while fulfilling continental commitments.

Nitra push Växjö hard but lose 3-1 at Zobor in CHL

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

HK Nitra, the reigning Slovak champion, pushed Swedish side Växjö Lakers all the way in a Champions Hockey League match at Zobor but lost 3-1. Martin Vitaloš scored for Nitra to give the hosts the lead, yet Växjö – a semifinalist in the SHL last season – produced a three-goal turnaround in the third period. Peter Cehlárik registered an assist for Växjö. Both coaches and players praised Nitra’s physical intensity and energy despite the defeat.

Key Facts

  • Final score: Växjö Lakers 3, HK Nitra 1 (3-1).
  • The match was played in Nitra, with HK Nitra as the home side.
  • HK Nitra took the lead through defender Martin Vitaloš, who scored Nitra’s only goal.
  • Växjö Lakers scored three goals in the third period to overturn a 1-0 deficit and win the match.
  • Peter Cehlárik, forward for Växjö, recorded one assist in the game.
  • This was Nitra’s second Champions Hockey League appearance of the campaign and they lost their second match in the competition (two defeats noted in source).
  • Växjö were a semifinalist in the previous SHL season, underlining their standing as a strong visiting side.
  • Nitra’s coach Erik Čaládi said the team showed enormous desire and could be proud despite the result.
  • Växjö coach Björn Hellkvist acknowledged a shaky start for his side but felt they deserved the victory after settling into the game.
  • Martin Vitaloš said he expects the team to improve and adapt further to higher-level European hockey, pointing to an upcoming trip to Finland.

IHM Discussion

This was a match that underlined two linked narratives: Nitra’s willingness to compete physically against established European opposition, and Växjö’s ability to recover from an uncomfortable start. The Slovak champions began strongly – their first period and early second-period play earned genuine praise from Erik Čaládi and produced Martin Vitaloš’s goal – but could not sustain that control through the final 20 minutes.

Björn Hellkvist admitted Växjö were ‘a little shaky’ early on after a difficult outing in Mannheim on Friday, but said his players settled and played with greater clarity as the game went on. The three third-period goals followed that shift in control.

Vitaloš’s strike and his post-match comments offered encouragement for Nitra. The defenceman said the team were more willing to play forward, demand the puck, skate with it and move it more quickly. Cehlárik’s assist, meanwhile, was an important contribution to Växjö’s comeback.

Why It Matters

For HK Nitra, the performance offers positives despite the defeat. The team created chances, led the game and earned praise for its energy and physical approach. Vitaloš said the squad can improve further in Finland as it continues to adapt to higher-quality European hockey.

For Växjö, the comeback delivered a 3-1 victory after a difficult start. Hellkvist felt his side deserved the result once it had settled into the match, while Cehlárik contributed an assist.

Mini Q&A

What was the final score?

Växjö Lakers won 3-1 over HK Nitra (final score 3-1).

Who scored Nitra’s goal?

Defenceman Martin Vitaloš scored Nitra’s only goal.

Did any Slovak player assist for Växjö?

Yes. Slovak forward Peter Cehlárik recorded one assist for Växjö Lakers.

How did the match turn in Växjö’s favour?

Växjö overturned a 1-0 deficit by scoring three times in the third period to win the game.

What did Nitra’s coach Erik Čaládi say after the match?

Čaládi said the team could be proud, they played excellently, showed enormous desire to win and in parts were the better team, but the game turned in the third period.

What Comes Next

Vitaloš said Nitra hope to carry this level of performance forward and be even better and more confident in Finland.

IHM Final View

The result will sting, but the night offered evidence of Nitra’s ability to compete in a demanding continental fixture. They took the lead through Vitaloš before Växjö turned the game with three goals in the third period. Nitra can take encouragement from their energy, movement and willingness to play forward, while Växjö showed composure after an unsettled start.

Cehlárik likely to start Tipsport season with Žilina after Växjö trip

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Peter Cehlárik played a useful part in Växjö Lakers’ 3-1 comeback win at HK Nitra in the 2026/27 Champions Hockey League, providing an assist and finishing with a +2 rating. The Slovak international was Växjö’s second-most used forward, logging 18:05 of ice time. Cehlárik described Nitra as a physical, energetic opponent and said he was pleased Växjö turned the match around in the third period. Swedish tax rules mean Cehlárik has not been training with Växjö in Sweden; instead, he has travelled with the club for fixtures abroad and trained with Vlci Žilina between trips. He said he will go to Žilina on Monday, expects to miss roughly four league games and plans to leave for Sweden towards the end of September.

Key Facts

  • Växjö Lakers beat HK Nitra 3-1 in the Champions Hockey League match referenced.
  • Peter Cehlárik recorded one assist and two plus/minus on the night for Växjö.
  • Cehlárik played 18:05, the second-most ice time of Växjö’s forwards in that game.
  • Nitra led 1-0 after two periods before Växjö scored three times in the third to win 3-1.
  • Cehlárik said Nitra played physically and with energy, which made the match demanding.
  • Because of Swedish tax regulations Cehlárik has not been training with Växjö in Sweden and joins the team only for activities abroad.
  • Cehlárik played pre-season matches for Kiekko-Espoo and the first two Champions League fixtures in Mannheim and then in Nitra.
  • He will join Vlci Žilina on Monday and described it as very realistic that he will play some matches for them at the start of the Tipsport liga season.
  • Cehlárik expects to miss about four league games before leaving for Sweden towards the end of September.
  • Växjö coach Björn Hellkvist said he knows Cehlárik well from Leksand, praised his mature play and noted the player has had a demanding schedule; Hellkvist also joked about not writing Swedish tax laws ahead of the 13 September parliamentary election.
  • The article compares Cehlárik’s situation to Marek Hrivík, who previously experienced a similar arrangement of training but not playing in Sweden.
  • The supplied final score was 3-1.

IHM Discussion

Cehlárik’s current pattern – training with Žilina while travelling with Växjö for fixtures abroad – is an unusual response to the restrictions he described. Växjö have still been able to use him in competitive games, and he supplied an assist in Nitra. For Žilina, a possible short-term spell would give the forward match action while he continues preparing for the Swedish season.

There are obvious practical challenges in moving between squads, including travel, changing systems and new linemates. Cehlárik emphasised the value of remaining in game rhythm, while Hellkvist noted that the forward has had a demanding schedule. The Växjö coach also highlighted Cehlárik’s familiarity with Lucas Elvenes from their time together in Leksand.

Cehlárik compared his circumstances with Marek Hrivík’s previous experience of a similar arrangement. For now, his focus is on playing when possible and becoming fully acquainted with Växjö’s environment.

Why It Matters

Cehlárik’s availability is relevant to both Växjö and Žilina in the opening weeks of the season. A spell with Žilina would give him competitive minutes before his planned move to Sweden, while Växjö can continue integrating him during fixtures outside Sweden. His situation also illustrates how tax rules can affect a player’s pre-season routine and early-season availability.

Mini Q&A

Did Peter Cehlárik contribute in Växjö’s 3-1 win at Nitra?

Yes. He recorded one assist and finished with a +2 plus/minus; Växjö won 3-1 after scoring three goals in the third period.

Why is Cehlárik not training regularly in Sweden with Växjö?

According to the player, Swedish tax regulations mean he does not train with Växjö in Sweden and therefore joins the team only when they are abroad.

Will Cehlárik play for Vlci Žilina at the start of the Tipsport-liga season?

He said he will go to Žilina on Monday and described it as very realistic that he will play some matches at the start of the season; formal appearances are to be confirmed in the coming days.

How many domestic league games does he expect to miss?

Cehlárik estimated that he will miss about four league games before leaving for Sweden.

When does he plan to return to Sweden?

He stated he will leave for Sweden towards the end of September.

What did Växjö coach Björn Hellkvist say about Cehlárik’s situation?

Hellkvist praised Cehlárik’s mature play, noted the player’s demanding travel and match schedule, and made a light-hearted remark that he does not write Swedish tax laws ahead of the 13 September parliamentary election.

Coach Mark Comment

From a coaching perspective, the priority is clarity. A player moving between teams needs a clearly defined role, manageable workload and consistent communication around travel and recovery. Competitive minutes can help Cehlárik maintain his rhythm, while simple, familiar responsibilities should ease his eventual full-time integration with Växjö.

What Comes Next

– Cehlárik will go to Vlci Žilina on Monday and says it is very realistic that he will play some matches at the start of the Tipsport liga season. – He expects to miss approximately four league games before leaving for Sweden towards the end of September. – Hellkvist said he is looking forward to Cehlárik joining Växjö definitively.

IHM Final View

The arrangement is a practical way for Cehlárik to keep playing while his time with Växjö remains limited to activities abroad. He appears likely to feature for Žilina at the start of the Tipsport liga season before leaving for Sweden towards the end of September.

Nitra to host Växjö Lakers in Champions Hockey League

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

HK Nitra return to Champions Hockey League action on 6 September when they host Swedish side Växjö Lakers. The match, scheduled to begin at 17:00, follows Nitra’s 1:6 loss to reigning Swedish champions Skellefteå AIK in their opening CHL fixture. Växjö arrive off a 1:3 defeat by Mannheim in round one and following a four-match pre-season programme that included wins over Malmö and Kiekko-Espoo. The officials are referees Martin Jobbágy and Filip Crman, with Matúš Stanzel and Daniel Konc on the lines.

Key Facts

  • Match: HK Nitra v Växjö Lakers, Champions Hockey League, round two.
  • Date and time (as stated): 06.09.2026, puck drop 17:00.
  • HK Nitra lost their CHL opener to Skellefteå AIK 1:6.
  • Växjö Lakers lost their CHL opener to Mannheim 1:3.
  • Växjö played a four-game pre-season: beat Malmö 2:1, lost 2:3 after overtime to Rögle, then beat Kiekko-Espoo 3:2 and 3:1.
  • HK Nitra’s pre-season results listed: lost 0:2 to Zlín, beat Ferencváros 6:2, beat Zlín 7:3 and beat Tychy 3:0.
  • Referees: Martin Jobbágy and Filip Crman; linesmen: Matúš Stanzel and Daniel Konc (Slovak officiating quartet).

IHM Discussion

The fixture pits a Slovak champion fresh into European competition against a Swedish semifinalist with recent SHL pedigree. Nitra’s heavy opening-day defeat to Skellefteå underlined the step up in opposition they face in the Champions Hockey League, while Växjö’s 1:3 reverse to Mannheim shows the Swedish side are not immune to early setbacks. Both clubs arrive with clear match practice from their pre-season schedules: Växjö completed a compact four-game programme that included wins and a narrow overtime loss, whereas Nitra recorded a run of positive results after an initial friendly defeat to Zlín. The combination of Nitra’s home advantage and Växjö’s recent preparation sets up a contest where both teams will be seeking immediate responses after opening-round defeats.

Why It Matters

For Nitra, this game is part of their return to the Champions Hockey League after several seasons away; a strong home performance would be important for confidence and their standing in the competition. For Växjö, an away victory would provide an early response to their opening-game defeat.

Mini Q&A

When and where does the match take place?

The fixture is at HK Nitra’s home rink on 06.09.2026 with puck drop at 17:00, as stated.

How did Nitra fare in their opening Champions League match?

HK Nitra lost 1:6 to reigning Swedish champion Skellefteå AIK in their opening Champions Hockey League match.

What were Växjö Lakers’ recent results before this game?

Växjö lost 1:3 to Mannheim in the CHL opener and had a four-game pre-season that included a 2:1 win over Malmö, a 2:3 overtime loss to Rögle, and two wins over Kiekko-Espoo, 3:2 and 3:1.

Who are the match officials?

The game will be officiated by referees Martin Jobbágy and Filip Crman, with Matúš Stanzel and Daniel Konc on the lines.

What Comes Next

The match is scheduled to start at 17:00 on 6 September.

IHM Final View

Växjö will be equally intent on bouncing back from their own first-round loss. With experienced officials appointed and both sides carrying recent pre-season form, the match should give an early indication of how each club will handle continental competition this season.

HC Fribourg-Gottéron suffer injury setbacks after CHL opener

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

HC Fribourg-Gottéron celebrated an away win in their Champions Hockey League opener against the Graz99ers but left the game with several injury concerns. Forward Jamiro Reber was forced out after a single shift when, head coach Roger Rönnberg said, he “took a hit that reignited some old pain.” Forward Christoph Bertschy was taken to hospital after being struck in the neck; the club declined to comment, while Bertschy was reportedly discharged the following morning and the injury is not thought to be serious. Goaltender Loic Galley did not play because he was rested. Forward Nathan Marchon also missed the game through an existing injury, which Rönnberg described as “also an old injury”; the coach said Marchon is expected to return next week. It remains to be seen whether Reber will be available for Saturday’s away match against KAC Klagenfurt.

Key Facts

  • HC Fribourg-Gottéron won away in their Champions Hockey League opener against the Graz99ers.
  • Jamiro Reber left the game after one shift following a hit that, according to coach Roger Rönnberg, ” reignited some old pain.”
  • Rönnberg said after the match that Reber had taken a hit which “reignited some old pain.”
  • Christoph Bertschy was taken to hospital after being hit in the neck; the club declined to comment.
  • Bertschy was reportedly able to leave hospital the following morning, and the injury is not thought to be serious.
  • Loic Galley was omitted from the lineup because he was rested.
  • Nathan Marchon missed the game due to an existing injury; Rönnberg said it is an old injury and that Marchon is expected to return next week.
  • Reber’s availability for Saturday’s away game against KAC Klagenfurt was described as uncertain by the coach.

IHM Discussion

The injuries are an unwelcome complication at the outset of Fribourg-Gottéron’s European campaign. Reber’s early exit creates short-term uncertainty over the forward group for the upcoming matches. Bertschy’s discharge from hospital is encouraging, although the club had not commented on his condition after the game. Galley’s absence was explicitly unrelated to injury, while Marchon remains sidelined with an old injury. The combination of injuries and planned rest could shape Fribourg’s selection for their next domestic and continental fixtures.

Why It Matters

These developments matter because they could affect Fribourg-Gottéron’s depth and selection in the immediate term. The club must assess Reber’s fitness ahead of the trip to KAC Klagenfurt, while Marchon’s expected return next week could improve the forward options. For a team balancing domestic and Champions Hockey League commitments, clarity on player availability is important for planning ice time and rotations.

Mini Q&A

What happened to HC Fribourg-Gottéron during their CHL opener?

They won away against the Graz99ers, but Reber left after one shift and Bertschy was taken to hospital after the game. Marchon was already sidelined through injury, while Galley was rested.

Which players were affected and what were the issues?

Jamiro Reber left after one shift with a recurrence of old pain, Christoph Bertschy was taken to hospital after being hit in the neck (later reported to have left hospital and the injury is reportedly not serious), Loic Galley was rested, and Nathan Marchon missed the game due to an existing injury.

Will Jamiro Reber play in the next match?

It remains to be seen whether Reber will be available for Saturday’s away match at KAC Klagenfurt.

When is Nathan Marchon expected back?

Coach Roger Rönnberg said Marchon is expected to return next week.

Has the club provided details on Bertschy’s condition?

The club declined to comment after the game. Bertschy was reportedly discharged from hospital the following morning, and the injury is not thought to be serious.

What Comes Next

Nathan Marchon is expected to return next week. Bertschy was reportedly discharged from hospital the morning after the match, with the injury not thought to be serious.