Frölunda Indians (SWE) v HC Pilsen (CZE)
Gothenburg Frölunda Indians travel to face HC Pilsen tonight knowing they are on the brink of a fourth final appearance in five years. The Czech team need to win by four clear goals to qualify after losing the first leg 3-6 in Sweden last week.
They need to see top players like Milan Gulas and former KHL star, Jan Kovar as well as former Detroit Red Wings defenseman, Jakub Kindl play to the very best of their ability and hope that Ryan Lasch, Joel Lundqvist and company are having a bad day at the office. But whilst Pilsen have not lost at home in the CHL this season, Frölunda have only lost by more than four goals once this season in the SHL.
Red Bull Salzburg (AUT) v Red Bull Munich (GER)
After a 0-0 result in Munich last week, the Battle of Red Bull must be decided in Salzburg on Wednesday. Last week we heard the pipe work cling more than the siren ring, so this could be a one goal game where Sudden Death, or even penalties, will decide which of these two German speaking neighbours will be the first to represent their country in the CHL final.
Salzburg’s go-to man in front of net is Canadian John Hughes, with over 600 goals in c. 500 appearance in the EBEL. But they also have former Portland Pirates (AHL) playmaker, Ryan Duncan who has a track record of coming good in playoff scenarios.
Munich have the advantage of six German Olympic bronze medalists in the team - a squad that beat Switzerland, Sweden, Canada and nearly OA Russia in one goal games. So, netminder Danny aus den Birken, defensemen Yannic Seidenberg, Daryl Boyle and forwards Patrick Hager, Frank Mauer and Yasin Ehliz will be the key to an away ice victory for the Germans in what could prove to be one of the best matches of the tournament.
@ABritOnThinIce1
