Kometa Brno return to the Champions Hockey League as reigning Czech champions, making their third appearance in the pan-European competition. One of the most accomplished clubs in Czech hockey history, Kometa enjoyed a resurgence under Head Coach Kamil Pokorný and captured the Czech Extraliga title in 2025.

Their previous CHL runs in the 2017/18 and 2018/19 seasons saw them advance to the Quarter-Finals on both occasions, results that underline their ability to challenge the top teams in Europe. Led by captain Jakub Flek, a World Champion in 2024, the Czechs are eager to make another strong statement on home ice at the Winning Group Arena.

Their first hurdle will be Brynäs IF, a Swedish powerhouse steeped in tradition. With 13 national titles and a proud history, the club from Gävle is making only its second CHL appearance after reaching the Quarter-Finals in the 2017/18 season.

Having won the SHL regular season in the 2024/25 season, Brynäs now aim to convert that domestic form into success on the European stage. Head Coach Niklas Gällstedt has strengthened the squad with the arrivals of NHL veteran Robert Hägg and talented young forward Lucas Pettersson, adding both experience and skill to an already very competitive line-up.

Look out for Brno’s Flek, whose leadership will be central to their chances, and defenceman Libor Zábranský, who returns to his boyhood club after years abroad. For Brynäs, Anton Rödin remains a reliable offensive presence, while Jakob Silfverberg’s two-way play and technical skills provide balance at both ends of the ice.