The stage was set and continues to be for HC Bolzano, who will do whatever it takes to avoid being left behind in the Group Stage like they were four years ago. If successful, they will become the first Italian side to progress into the knockout stages of the tournament. If they fail, then the crescendo of a journey that they’ve been on so far will only amount to be nothing more than a mirage.

There are several factors surrounding the ‘if’, primarily their opponents, whose timing to achieve the first Polish points in the history of the Champions Hockey League was impeccable to say the least. GKS Tychy were ruthless in punishing Bolzano for their mistakes while also embellishing the win with an artful goal in what proved to be a fitting penultimate game. They could add further upset to their résumé if they can replicate another performance of this kind against a potentially nervy home side.

Challenging Bolzano for their qualification spot is IFK Helsinki, who were one of the sides that made it out of their Group in the 14/15 year where the Italians didn’t. They will have to recover from a 5-1 loss to Skellefteå AIK, who will remain top regardless of the results on the final Matchday, or hope that Tychy score more than seven past Bolzano to turn the goal difference in their favour should they lose. The game will undoubtedly impact this fixture and the fate of the Foxes, who could hear news of their qualification before the 60 minutes against Tychy are up.