- Fribourg-Gottéron and Leksands IF have both qualified for the Round of 16
- Fribourg are currently the top ranked team in Group F
- Leksand would need a big win in regulation time to clinch top spot
With five wins in regulation, Swiss contenders Fribourg-Gottéron have had the best possible start to this year's Champions Hockey League. Game Day 5 saw the first match-up between Fribourg and Leksands IF, who were both previously undefeated in Group F.
While Leksand had an incredible start to the game, with the backing of their fans at home, their lead was crushed over the next two periods. The Swiss visitors swept the lead from under their hosts, and took control of the game to finish 5-2. The loss ended Leksand's four game winning streak, and further established Fribourg's dominance within their group.
So, who are the danger-men on the ice? Fribourg forwards, Christopher DiDomenico, and David Desharnais are currently averaging just over a point per game, alongside defenceman Ryan Gunderson. Their performances and contributions have been rock-solid each game, however, it's Swiss native Killian Mottet who has been the star playmaker for Fribourg with eight points, including six assists in five games.
Another huge factor has been 25-year-old netminder Connor Hughes, who managed to recover from a tough first period (2-0) and then blank the Swedes during the next two periods to help bring his team another vital win. Hughes has been mister consistent, conceding just four goals in 180 minutes of playing time.
For Leksand, who are in their debut CHL season, the loss provided a valuable lesson and they'll be doing everything they can to stay out of the box and to keep up the momentum.
Leksand's top offensive players include forwards Mikael Ruohomaa with seven points and Justin Kloos with six. Both players are in their debut seasons with the Swedish club. American defenceman Matt Caito has also had a solid start to the season with six points, including five assists in five games.
Finnish netminder Kasimir Kaskisuo, who is also in his first season with the club, has given up six goals in 180 minutes of playing time.
Can Leksands knock Fribourg from the top, or will the Swiss secure another win and continue their epic winning streak?