NLA champions SC Bern will be heavy favourites to beat the Nottingham Panthers on the opening game day in Group F.

It's one of those tricky "no win" situations for Bern against the Panthers, expected to win again the lowest seeded team in this year's competition, but Head Coach Kari Jalonen knows the British team isn't just there to make up the numbers. “By winning the Continental Cup, Nottingham earned their spot in the Champions Hockey League," said the 57-year-old Oulu native. "Their loyal fans will also bring energy and enthusiasm to Group F.”

The Panthers didn't have the best of seasons last time around but European success saw them back into the CHL. "Heading to Bern should be an incredible experience for the fans and the team, as the most highly attended club in Europe," said Panthers' Head Coach Corey Neilsen. "They’re the highest ranked team in our group so we know to expect speed and skill and more."