Both teams arrive into this standout QFs match-up with confidence, though for very different reasons. Luleå advanced by overcoming Kometa Brno across two high-scoring games, while Ilves enter the round with a perfect 8-0 CHL record and some of the most convincing performances of the competition so far.

Luleå’s Round of 16 series was shaped by an explosive First Game on home ice, where the Swedes seized control with a 6-1 win. Anton Levchi, William Håkansson, Brian O’Neill, Markus Nurmi and Brendan Shinnimin were all on the scoresheet, with Luleå scoring five unanswered goals in the third period alone.

The Return Game in Brno proved more complicated. Kometa pushed aggressively from the start, twice cutting the aggregate gap to three goals, but Luleå responded at key moments. Goals from Isac Heedqvist, Heikki Liedes and Pontus Andreasson ensured the Swedes maintained control, eventually advancing 9-6 over the two games. Though the Return Game ended in a 5-3 defeat, Luleå showed resilience and an ability to respond when under duress.

Ilves, meanwhile, were tested more heavily than their flawless record might suggest, but ultimately handled Pinguins Bremerhaven with maturity. The Finns took the First Game 3-2 in Germany before returning to the Nokia Arena and delivering a composed 5-2 win to secure an 8-4 aggregate victory.

Their Round of 16 performance highlighted two long-standing strengths: an outstanding penalty kill, perfect through eight CHL contests, and an attack that can generate chances in waves. Luke Henman, Erik Borg, Jens Lööke, Matias Mäntykivi and Matic Török have all played decisive roles, while Dominik Pavlát and Mantas Armalis continue to provide stability in net.

This Quarter-Finals match-up pits Luleå’s structured, balanced line-up against Ilves’ high-tempo, deep offensive rotation. The Swedes hold strong face-off numbers and a capable defensive corps led by Frédéric Allard and Erik Gustafsson, but they will need to find solutions against an Ilves side that thrives in transition and rarely allows easy entries. At the same time, Ilves face one of their toughest opponents yet; Luleå’s home form and physical presence in tight games often tilt close contests in their favour.

With both teams entering the series confident and well-tested, the opening encounter in Luleå promises a compelling clash of styles. Ilves aim to extend their perfect season, while Luleå look to establish an early edge before their second encounter in Tampere. The stage is set for an intense Quarter-Finals series!