HC Bolzano have experienced a dramatic start to their CHL campaign, mixing disappointment with determination. The Foxes opened with a 3–0 defeat against Frölunda Gothenburg, struggling to create clear chances against the Swedish powerhouse. On Game Day 2, they stunned Lukko Rauma in Finland, overturning a 2–0 deficit to win 4–3 with Matthew James Bradley scoring the last-minute winner. Their third outing, at home against Kometa Brno, turned into a high-scoring thriller.

Despite a tough challenge from the Czechs, Bolzano fought hard and Maxwell Gildon netted the decisive strike in overtime to seal a 6–5 victory. With back-to-back wins, the Italians are finding momentum and surprising fans across Europe!

Mountfield HK, meanwhile, have endured a rollercoaster of their own. They began with a 4–3 overtime loss to the Odense Bulldogs, but then fell heavily 5–0 at home to Brynäs IF. On Game Day 3, they rebounded with a crucial 3–2 overtime victory away in Bern, with Lukáš Radil playing the hero by scoring the game-winner after also setting up Connor Bunnaman’s go-ahead tally in regulation. With three points from three games, the Czech side are under pressure to climb the standings if they want to stay in the playoff race.

Sunday’s clash in Bolzano carries weight for both sides. The Foxes will be eager to keep their winning run going in front of their home fans, possibly stretching to three if they win, while Mountfield need points to steady their campaign and stay in the fight for a Top 16 spot.