By the end of Wednesday night, we'll know which teams have made it into the top eight of this season's Champions Hockey League. While all eight clashes this week have their own intrigue, here are three things you definitely need to look out for!
1. Champions in trouble
Defending champions Frölunda Indians have it all to do if they’re to continue trying to defend their title. Down three goals, they’ll host Färjestad Karlstad needing a big win just to force overtime. Two seasons ago, they were eliminated as defending champions in the Round of 16 by Liberec.
2. Germany trying to stay in pole position
With three teams through to the Round of 16, and none of them playing each other, Germany is still able to get 100% of its teams through to the Quarter-Finals. Red Bull Munich have a lead, while Augsburg head to Biel-Bienne tied. Adler Mannheim will have to come from behind against Mountfield HK, although it is only one goal.
3. Tappara still able to break curse
Everyone knows about Tappara’s record in the Round of 16. After six minutes of their home game against EV Zug it looked like being another disappointing season for the Finns, but they battled back and head to Switzerland tied at three each on aggregate. Any sort of win will see them finally get into Europe’s top eight.
"We're the only Finnish team left, so we want to make the country proud."Michael Garteig, Tappara Tampere