Quarter-finals begin with a loss for Düsseldorf against ERC Ingolstadt in their competition
In a thrilling opening game of the playoff quarter-finals, the Düsseldorf EG suffered a narrow 5:4 overtime defeat at the hands of ERC Ingolstadt. The series, a best-of-seven, requires four wins to secure victory.
Coach Roger Hansson made a few changes to his lineup, with Victor Svensson out due to illness. Youngster Edi Junemann replaced Tobi Eder and Alex Ehl in the squad.
The first period saw the Düsseldorf EG pick up two minor penalties in quick succession, at least one of which was questionable. Despite this, Henrik Haukeland in the Red-Yellows' net was instrumental in the team's survival during the power play.
Captain Alex Barta put the Düsseldorf EG ahead with a power-play slapshot, but the lead was short-lived as Philip Gogulla equalised for Ingolstadt just 24 seconds into the second period.
The game remained tight, with both teams creating opportunities. Haukeland made multiple saves in the final period, creating counter-attack opportunities for the DEG. However, it was Mikko Kousa who scored a goal for Ingolstadt on a 4-on-4 breakaway, almost like a penalty shot, to take the lead.
Philip Gogulla scored a goal for Düsseldorf moments after the equaliser in the second overtime, setting the stage for a dramatic finale. However, it was Ty Ronning who sealed the victory for Ingolstadt with eight minutes left in the third period, a goal that Haukeland had no chance to stop.
The decisive slapshot in the 2nd overtime gave Ingolstadt a 5:4 win and a 1-0 lead in the series. The series continues in Düsseldorf on Friday, March 17, with Game 2 scheduled for 19:00. The Düsseldorf EG will be eager to bounce back and level the series in front of their home crowd.
The Düsseldorf EG's loss against ERC Ingolstadt in the Champions League quarter-finals has reignited the team's passion for football, as they prepare to face their rivals again. Despite Alex Barta's impressive power-play slapshot, it was Mikko Kousa's goal in the 4-on-4 breakaway that clinched the victory for Ingolstadt, setting the stage for an intense clash in the European leagues.
