Red Bull Munich welcomed NL champions Genève-Servette to the Olympia-Eisstadion for the first time ever in their Round of 16 First Game. The anticipation was high as both teams geared up for a clash between a seasoned and successful CHL veteran and a star-studded and championship-winning Genève squad.

Munich entered the game having lost two Champions Hockey League games in a row while Genève were on a mission to prove they had what it takes to succeed in the Playoffs, despite mixed performances of late domestically. 

Munich got off to a strong start, netting two goals within the opening six minutes of play. The incredible support from the home crowd played a role in getting the team hyped and motivated.

The first goal of the night came at 4:58 after the well-positioned Nicolas Krämmer sent the puck behind the goalie’s back to make it 1-0.

Genève seemed caught off guard by Munich's early strike, struggling to maintain control of the puck. A poorly executed pass behind the away team's goal became a golden opportunity for Maximilian Kastner. He swiftly sent the puck in front of the goal to a prepared Chris DeSousa who effortlessly buried it in the back of the net, solidifying Munich's lead at 2-0 as Genève looked completely out of it.

The home team controlled the remainder of the period, taking more shots and testing themselves with two powerplays.

The second period saw a relatively even and quiet game with both teams having great goal-scoring chances, but the score remained unchanged.

The closing period brought intensity back into the game with three goals lighting up the scoreboard. Genève weren’t ready to go home without a fight and scored their first goal of the night at 47:54.

Munich responded by reinstating their two-goal lead just four minutes later before the away team’s Daniel Winnik gave his team hope late in the game with a superb breakaway goal. 

Unfortunately for them, it wasn’t enough to tie the game, meaning the reigning Swiss champions will have to make up a goal in next week's Return Game while Munich will have a little buffer to help them get going.