Last Wednesday’s first leg contest between Mountfield HK and Adler Mannheim was quite the strange game. Both teams at times struggled to generate high-quality offensive chances. However, goaltenders Marek Mazanec and Johan Gustafsson were also superb at times to deny and frustrate the opposition forwards, until Mountfield's Aleš Jergl scored the game's only goal in the 56th minute. As this tie moves to the SAP Arena, home of Adler Mannheim, the German side will look to get the victory, and in doing so, progress to the Quarter-Finals for the first time in their history.

The Czech Republic hasn’t often been a happy hunting ground for Adler Mannheim, as the German side have only won once in four attempts across the border. However, if there is any comfort to be gained, they have won all three previous games played against Czech opponents in Mannheim. Two years ago, Oceláři Třinec beat Adler Mannheim 3-0 on home ice, only for the German side to thrash their Czech opponents 6-2 in Mannheim. Thus, Adler Mannheim can come into this game with confidence knowing that history is on their side. On Sunday, Mannheim recorded a 3-0 victory over the Fischtown Penguins in the DEL.

Where to start with Mountfield HK? After reaching the CHL Playoffs for the first time in their history this season, they are now on the cusp of reaching the Quarter-Finals. This fine European form, which has included a victory over defending CHL Champions Frölunda Indians, sharply contrasts with some troubling domestic form which sees them currently sit in ninth place in the Czech Extraliga. They have now lost four domestic games in a row, and will be looking for European success to boost confidence within the camp. Mazanec has struggled in the domestic league, only mustering an 89.1% save percentage. However, he was perfect last Wednesday, and will be called upon to do the same if they wish to represent the Czech Republic in the CHL Quarter-Finals.