HC Bozen faces a tricky task. © HCB/Vanna Antonello

Injured but dangerous: Bolzano's tough task

HCB Südtirol Alperia has had a brilliant start to the Champions Hockey League. As a clear underdog, the Foxes are looking to pull off another coup on Sunday – but struggling opponents are known to be the most dangerous.

September 06, 2025

From: never

Historic days lie behind HC Bozen: After the opening defeat in the Champions Hockey League at Frölunda Gothenburg (0:3), the Foxes ended their season with a triumph over the Finnish representative Lukko Rauma ( 4:3) initially suffered a four-year dry spell before they secured another victory against Kometa Brno from the Czech Republic ( 6:5 OT) have made their mark on the international stage. The dream of the playoffs is within reach after three of six group matches. The next European showdown is scheduled for Sunday at the Sparkasse Arena, when Mountfield HK visits Bolzano (15.30:XNUMX p.m./SportNews ticker live).

As was the case against Kometa Brno, HCB is entering completely new territory in its duel with Mountfield; the two clubs have never faced each other before. Mountfield finished second in the regular season of last year's Czech Extraliga, ultimately losing to Pardubice in the playoff semifinals. They got off to a bad start in this year's Champions Hockey League. The Odense Bulldogs (3:4 SO) and Brynäs (0:5) defeated the Czechs, but on Friday they celebrated a narrow victory in Bern (3:2 OT). Currently in 20th place, Mountfield is outside the playoff zone – that should change on Sunday against Bolzano.

HC Bozen faces hungry opponent

"We need points, we need to move up the standings," striker Petr Hasek was quoted as saying in a press release before the weekend. The Czechs want to have learned a lot from their two unexpected defeats. "I think we can take a lot from this game. I have to admit, I've never played against a better team. You could see that many players from their team have already played in the NHL," the 23-year-old said, reflecting on the loss to Swedish runner-up Byrnäs. "It's only good for us that this showed us where we stand and that we still have a lot to do."

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Mountfield is driven by his hunger – and relies on a now established trio up front. Alongside Hasek, Connor Bunnaman and Oskars Batna are also on the offensive hunt. "Both are incredible hockey players with vast experience. Connor played in the NHL, Oskars has been to the World Championship several times," Hasek said of his teammates, each ten years his senior. "I think they complement each other well and they can teach me a lot. It will get better with each game. We're a three-man defense, so I hope we'll play fast, physical hockey, that we'll enjoy it, and that we'll be successful."

Treats for HCB fans

Just one day before the showdown with Mountfield, HC Bozen fans have another highlight on the agenda. The season-opening party on Saturday from noon to midnight will offer a special off-ice experience with barbecue stands, food trucks, and music. A public practice will also take place starting at 12.00:16.00 p.m., followed by an autograph signing at 17.30:XNUMX p.m.