Ilves Tampere return to the Nokia Arena needing a strong home performance to erase a narrow 3-2 aggregate deficit against Luleå Hockey, after a tightly contested First Game in Sweden. Luleå controlled long stretches early and built a deserved multi-goal lead, yet Ilves battled back in the third period to keep the series fully alive heading into Tuesday’s decisive Return Game.

Luleå’s opening pressure in the First Game set the tone. Brendan Shinnimin’s pinpoint finish broke the deadlock before a beautifully executed powerplay sequence saw Pontus Andreasson and Mathias Bromé combine for Markus Nurmi’s one-timer to double the advantage. Goaltender Matteus Ward was sharp when needed, backing up Luleå’s structured defensive play as the Swedes held a two-goal cushion through 40 minutes.

Ilves found their spark in the third period. A chaotic sequence in front of goal allowed Eemil Laurell to pull one back, and although Mathias Bromé restored Luleå’s margin less than three minutes later, the Finns pushed again. Timi Teuho-Markkola struck late after a turnover forced by Matias Mäntykivi, giving Ilves the momentum-boosting second goal that keeps the aggregate score within reach. Mantas Armalis also delivered key saves throughout the night, preventing Luleå from putting the tie out of sight.

With the scene shifting to Tampere, Ilves will lean on their depth and home-ice intensity. Matias Mäntykivi, Matic Török, and Lukáš Jašek continue to drive Ilves’ offence, while Simon Johansson and Radek Kučeřík have been central from the blue line. Whether Dominik Pavlát, Roope Taponen, or Mantas Armalis starts, Ilves boast a strong goaltending rotation capable of lifting the team in decisive moments.

Luleå, meanwhile, arrive with confidence and structure. Brian O’Neill, Mathias Bromé, and Eetu Koivistoinen anchor a disciplined attack, while Frédéric Allard and William Håkansson provide stability at the back. Their penalty kill and face-off strength were factors in their previous encounters and will again be crucial if they hope to defend their slim advantage in a challenging road environment.

With the aggregate gap sitting at just one goal, the stage is set for a dramatic finish in Finland. Ilves have been one of the standout teams in this CHL campaign and will hope their First Game setback was only a brief stumble. Luleå have protected narrow leads with veteran composure all season. Everything remains in play for a place in the Semi-Finals.