HC Bolzano return home for Game Day 3 after an eventful start to their CHL campaign. The Foxes opened with a 3–0 defeat in Gothenburg against Frölunda, where they struggled to generate offence against one of the competition's perennial contenders.

Their response came in dramatic fashion on Game Day 2 in Finland. Trailing 2–0 to Lukko Rauma and heavily outshot, Bolzano roared back with three goals from Bryce Misley, Cole Schneider and Shane Gersich before Matthew James Bradley delivered the game-winner with just 21 seconds left in regulation. That 4–3 victory not only secured their first points but also showed the resilience and opportunism that can make them dangerous.

Kometa Brno, meanwhile, enter Friday’s clash full of confidence after winning their opening two games. The Czech champions defeated Brynäs IF 4–1 in their opener, capitalising on mistakes and getting key saves from Aleš Stezka. They followed that with a 5–2 win over Odense Bulldogs, where five different scorers contributed as the Brno attack displayed its depth and balance. With experienced names like Hynek Zohorna and Šimon Stránský already on the scoresheet, Kometa look like a team finding their stride.

Thursday’s match-up will see Bolzano try to build on their dramatic comeback, while Kometa aim to extend their perfect start. With the Foxes eager to deliver in front of their home crowd and the Czechs pushing to keep control of the group, the game will be one to savour.