- Johansson and Kořenář both strong in the first frame
- Four-goal second period swings momentum
- Empty-netter secures Sparta’s 4–2 victory
Sparta Prague faced Swedish powerhouse Frölunda Gothenburg on Game Day 4 of the Champions Hockey League. Both sides were pushing for valuable points to strengthen their position in the race for the Playoffs.
The first period belonged to Sparta, as the hosts dictated the tempo and gave Frölunda little room to operate. Jakub Sirota had the opening chance after circling the net but was unable to finish. Lars Johansson handled everything that followed, including a heavy drive from Jakub Klepiš. At the other end, Sparta goaltender Josef Kořenář was equally solid, denying Nicklas Lasu on a late backhand to keep the game scoreless after twenty minutes.
The second period was far more eventful, producing four goals. Max Lindholm broke the deadlock at 21:01 with a shot from the right circle. Sparta responded quickly when Michal Řepík levelled the game with a slick deke. The home side then struck on the powerplay through Tomáš Hyka, before Mārtiņš Dzierkals finished off a two-on-one rush to give Sparta a two-goal cushion.
The third period offered no major twists. Frölunda managed to cut the deficit, but another strong performance from Kořenář kept Sparta in control. A late empty-net goal sealed the result, as the Czechs celebrated a 4–2 victory and climbed to eight points in the standings.