Group C has been a tough challenge for Slovan Bratislava, who faced a duo of top teams early. Despite a home ice advantage, their opening matches were two hard-fought losses, first against Finnish side Tappara Tampere 5-2, and then 4-1 against Red Bull Munich.

So far, netminding time has been split equally between Samuel Hlavaj and Jared Coreau, who have suited up for a game each. Offensive prowess has not been dominated by a particular player, rather a handful of players have lit the lamp for the Slovakian side.

With a staggering seven Champions Hockey League seasons under their belt, Tappara are one of the top performing teams, having consistently reached the Round of 16. This season they've hit the ground running with two wins in two. Their first against came against Slovan and their second was a closer 3-1 against Swiss contenders Rapperswil-Jona Lakers.

Christian Heljanko has been the go-to-man between the pipes for Tappara clocking all 120 minutes of playing time. Offensively, 35-year-old Jori Lehterä has been the playmaking king with four assists in two games, while Waltteri Merelä has netted three points (2G, 1A). Valtteri Kemiläinen leads the defencemen for scoring, with two points (1G, 1A). 

With the current standings, Tappara sit just behind Red Bull Munich who are the Group C leaders, so every point for, and against is vital. Can Slovan steal their first a win on the road? Or will Tappara continue their unbeaten streak?