The Situation
The first two games in Europe's premier competition demonstrated that, when facing the continent's elite teams, one must be razor-sharp at every moment and bring one's best game to the ice. While the Red Bulls paid a heavy price for conceding goals during penalty kills and off turnovers against the Kölner Haie (2–5), they impressed against Liberec (3–0) with outstanding defensive work and capitalized on scoring opportunities at crucial moments.
The Salzburg team aims to replicate this style of hockey in Sweden and counter the SHL’s top teams with a compact, disciplined performance. That will certainly be necessary against Rögle BK, their first opponent this Friday in Ängelholm. Coached by Norwegian Dan Tangnes, the team reached the SHL final last season, ultimately falling only to the eventual champions, Skellefteå AIK.
In the CHL—a competition Rögle BK won in 2022 (though they have yet to claim the Swedish league title)—the Swedes have had a rocky start this season. They opened their campaign with losses in the Czech Republic against Pilsen (0–4) and Pardubice (0–1). Now, Rögle BK is playing its first home game of the CHL season and desperately needs points to stay in contention for the knockout stage. The Red Bulls are bracing themselves for a tenacious Swedish side and their characteristic offense-minded game. In their only previous visit to the Catena Arena in Ängelholm (the 2022 CHL Round of 16), the Red Bulls lost 1–5 to Rögle BK.
Statement from Benjamin Nissner
"In our last game against Liberec, we gave very little away at the back. We played the way we wanted to and stuck to our system. Now, we need to make sure we bring that same level of performance to the ice in Sweden. But the Swedes are hungry for a win too; it’s likely going to be another defensive battle. We have to be ready for that."
Personnel Update
Not making the trip to Sweden are Florian Baltram (lower-body injury), who is sidelined for several weeks following surgery, and Wyatt Kalynuk (upper-body injury), who should be fit again in time for the start of the win2day ICE Hockey League next week. Fabian Baumann has recovered and is back with the team.
Champions Hockey League
Rögle BK – EC Red Bull Salzburg
Fri, Sept 11, 2026 | Ängelholm, 19:00
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