Who'll win the 2019 Champions Hockey League Final? That's the question we'll find out the answer to on Tuesday night.
For now however, Göteborgs-Posten hockey journalst Johan Rylander gives us the Top 5 reasons why it could be the Frölunda Indians:
1. Skill
Frölunda do have more skilled players than their opponent. Samuel Fagemo is heading for the NHL in the future, and will be an unpleasant surprise for the Germans to deal with. But I do have a lot of respect for Munich goalie Danny aus den Birken. He can turn into a brick wall sometimes.
2. Speed
If Frölunda use the speed of all four lines, well … then Red Bull Munich will have problems catching them! And when you have problems catching someone, you will take penalties. Which leads us on to...
3. Special teams
If you look at the statistics, Frölunda are the stronger team both in powerplay and shorthanded situations. Almost three out of ten powerplays result in a goal – and the main attraction is of course, the big star, Ryan Lasch. Regardless of what the fans of Europe voted for, he is my MVP of the Champions Hockey League.
4. Professional experience
A team who has reached the CHL final in four out of five possible seasons has something special. Called it routine, or professional experience, Frölunda has won the competition twice – and that experience is worth a lot in a one-off game. I would say they have a huge advantage here, mentally.
5. Atmosphere
For the first time Frölunda will play a Champions Hockey League final in their 'real' arena. 6,044 can create a good atmosphere in the smaller Frölundaborg, but 12,044 in the Scandinavium will make it something no-one there forgets in their life. Even if Red Bull Munich come with a maximum of 1,200 fans, they'll lose the noise battle in the stands! Having that 'sixth player' is something that can't be under-estimated for Frölunda.