A fine save from goalie Zan Us of Olimpija Ljubljana right off the start showcased the Slovenians' tight defense as they made their Champions Hockey League debut.

The first powerplay came a few minutes into the first period, with Ljubljana’s Nik Simšič called for tripping but TPS Turku were unable to capitalize on their advantage, despite leading in shots. Overall, the first period came and went with neither team being able to get something going.

At the start of the second period, both teams fought hard to break through and produce the first point on the board. The second powerplay of the game went again to Turku after Kristjan Cepon was called for holding the stick. Turku’s Antti Tuomisto took a shot at long range, but Zan Us remained steady with the save.

Olimpija got their first powerplay of the game when Turku was penalized for too many players on ice, but the speed of Turku denied any chance to strike.

Just when things weren’t looking good for either team, Ljubljana’s Jaka Sodja swept one in bringing the first goal to the game.

Only seconds after the next play started, Turku came in hot with the equalizer

Back for another goal, Kivihalme scored to put his side in the lead 2:1 for Turku. The home team got their next powerplay, as Ljubljana were called for hooking.

Persistence paid off for Turku, with Mikael Pyyhtiä sneaking one in during their advantage.

Aljoša Crnović managed to score for Ljubljana, bringing the final score to 3:2 for Turku! 

With a slow start, this game picked up some major speed and engagement in the second and third periods with Turku taking the win in the end.