Although Sparta Prague is already playing its seventh season on Europe’s biggest ice hockey stage and EVZ is competing in the Champions Hockey League for the ninth time, this exciting round of 16 series will be the very first duel between the two clubs. While the Czechs won five of their six regular season games – one of them in a penalty shootout – EVZ won twice after 60 minutes and once in overtime. Accordingly, Prague will enjoy home advantage in the series and will be able to host the second and decisive game at home.
As a reminder, if the first leg in Zug is tied after 60 minutes, the game is over. The decisive factor for advancing in the CHL playoffs is the so-called aggregate score after two games – if both teams have scored the same number of goals after 120 minutes of play, the game goes into overtime (even if the result of the second leg is 2-1, for example).
On Wednesday, November 12, EVZ will host Sparta Prague for the first leg of the CHL round of 16 at the OYM hall.
A glance at the statistics reveals that the two teams are still almost neck and neck in terms of goals scored, power play efficiency, and penalty killing. Only in terms of goals conceded per game does Sparta have a clear lead – the three goals conceded per game are also attributable to Zug’s 3-7 home defeat against Ingolstadt. The other two defeats against Kometa Brno and Lukko Rauma were both decided by a single goal.
«Sparta brings a lot of offensive power to the table. They have several players in their squad who have played in the NHL or KHL or are regulars on the Czech national team. It’s sure to be an exciting match!»
Dominik Kubalik, Forward EVZ
Swiss fans will be particularly familiar with the following names: Michael Špaček, who played for Ambrì and Geneva, Filip Chlapík, also a former HCAP forward, and of course Jakub Kovář, ZSC goalie in the 2021/22 season and brother of EVZ captain Jan. Many will also remember Michal Řepík – the NHL veteran played four qualifying and three playoff games for EVZ in the 2014/15 season.
«It’s always a privilege to play in the CHL playoffs. The fact that I’m now facing my brother makes it even more special. I’m also really looking forward to the game in Prague — my family and friends will finally be able to see me play live again.»
Jan Kovář, Captain EVZ
In the domestic league, Prague seems to have finally found its footing after the change of coach from Pavel Gross to Jaroslav Nedvěd at the beginning of October – they have won all of their last four games and have a total of eight wins in eleven games (including CHL) under Nedvěd. Whether Sparta can maintain its good form during the national team break will be seen on Sunday, November 9, in the match against Liberec.
For EVZ, the encounter with the traditional Czech club will mark its return after the national team break. Their form has been fluctuating recently, with wins and losses alternating. At least there seems to be light at the end of the injury tunnel: Lukas Bengtsson has a good chance of returning to the line-up. Daniel Vozenilek is also set to make a comeback soon. In addition, the two youngsters Robin Antenen and Loris Wey have been given the green light for the upcoming games.
For season ticket holders, the round of 16 game is included in your subscription – if you are unable to attend, please pass your ticket on to friends or acquaintances. Seats and standing room tickets are still available from the EVZ ticket shop. The popular Dine & View package is also available for this game – season ticket holders benefit from a special offer, details of which you will have received by email.
Tables are also available at the 67 Sportsbar, where you can enjoy some food and drinks to get in the mood for the game.
*Unfortunately, the EVZ Marketplace is not available for Champions Hockey League games.
SECURE TICKETS FOR THE HOME GAME IN THE ROUND OF 16
