BK Mladá Boleslav had a tough season opener against Frölunda Gothenburg on Thursday – the Czech side were second best throughout the entirety of the game.

They let in three goals in the first twenty minutes and one more in the second period, sealing the result on their big return to the Champions Hockey League. Despite four-time CHL Champions Frölunda calling the shots, the Extraliga team had plenty of chances to turn the game around but failed to utilise them.

Mladá Boleslav had more shots overall in the game, but their main problem was hitting the target, as Niklas Rubin only had to face 24 shots. They also struggled with the man advantage. In total, the Czechs had five powerplays throughout the game but failed to convert any of them.

Of course, facing one the biggest names of European hockey on your first game back will be a challenge for any team but if Mladá Boleslav want to earn some points against a more evenly matched Helsinki, they’ll have to improve in these key areas.

Unlike Mladá Boleslav, IFK Helsinki started their campaign with a big win against Swiss side ZSC Lions Zurich, though they did have to fight for it. The Finns took their time but when the right opportunity arose they were ready, scoring two quick goals at the start of the third period before adding an empty-netter before the final buzzer.

The game was a true battle though, as fighting, unsportsmanlike conduct and roughing calls were dished out on both sides throughout the entire game. Key Helsinki players missed big chunks of the game as the coaches were forced to mix and match their lines.

So despite the win, the Liiga side need to keep their composure and reduce the number of penalties to ensure they have a chance of making it two out of two in the CHL so far, because Mladá Boleslav will certainly be focusing on their powerplay tactics ahead of the game.