In their five previous appearances in the Champions Hockey League ZSC Lions Zurich have managed to qualify for the Playoffs in all but one and have made it to the Quarter-Finals in two consecutive campaigns (2016/17, 2017/18). Meanwhile, challenger Rögle Ängelholm are graduating to the CHL Playoffs after putting together a 5-1 record in their debut.

Part of Rögle’s success has come with the man-advantage. At 50% efficiency, the Swedish club is lethal when up a man, oftentimes turning the tide of the game in their favour – most notably in their victory over SønderjyskE Vojens, where they scored four to secure the win. Zurich, however, have played the defensive part well through their six tilts, registering two shutouts and sporting a 86.21% PK. The Swiss are also ranked within the top ten in PK%, Goals Against, and Goals Against per Game.

Traveling won’t be an issue as each side has already made the trip to their opponent’s homeland, with differing results. Zurich faced off against Frölunda Gothenburg but came out on the losing side of a 4:3 OT finish. Fortunately, the Swiss side fared much better at home which is good news since they’ll be hosting Rögle to open their Round of 16 matchup. In their travels, the Swedes met EV Zug in two tight contests, including a 2:1 OT win in Switzerland, claiming victory in each.

While Rögle have made it into the win column regardless of the venue, it's noteworthy that they've only scored six of their 23 goals on the road while Zurich have tallied 11 of their 17 at home – though they’ve been shutout once, as well – making this match anyone’s affair to begin their bid for the European Trophy.