Hungarian debutants Fehérvár AV19 will enjoy the home ice advantage during the first round of Group Stage games in Group D.

It's a historic opening night for the Hungarians who are led by former NHL Head Coach Kevin Constantine, and have been competing in Austria's top league since 2007, albeit with mixed results. During their 2021/22 campaign the team had one of their best performances taking a third-place finish, but advancing further has been a challenge. This year the team suits up with a majority of Hungarian players including forward János Hári who has been a staple offensive contributor over the last two seasons.

On the away bench, and with six CHL seasons under their belt, ZSC Lions Zurich are well versed in the trials and tribulations of the Group Stage. Last season they successfully navigated the gauntlet, reaching the Round of 16, but struck-out against Swedish side and 2021/22 CHL Champions Rögle Ängelholm. A second blow was dealt when Zurich suffered a bitter loss to compatriots, EV Zug in the NL final last season.

While some tough moments riddled the last season for the swiss side, Zurich remain a top contender in both their domestic league and the CHL. Not only have they been among the top five clubs in the NL for the past three seasons, this year also marks their eighth season of qualifying to compete against Europe's best. The team have also signed additional talent incluing former NHLers, Swiss native Dean Kukan, as well as Mikko Lehtonen, and Lucas Wallmark.

Will league newcomers Fehérvár be able to strike and surprise their opponents, or will it be a baptism of fire delivered by a well-experienced rival looking to turn their luck around? 

Catch the action when the puck drops at 19:00 CEST at the Gábor Ocskay Jégcsarnok Arena.