The historic Spengler Cup, celebrating its 95th anniversary, commenced with a riveting opening match as HC Dynamo Pardubice narrowly edged out HC Ambrì-Piotta 3-2 in a gripping overtime finish. The tournament, which originated in 1923 at Oxford University with Berliner SC as one of the first participants, has evolved into a six-team battle for international hockey supremacy. 

From the initial puck drop at the Davos Eisstadion, the game captured the essence of high-stakes hockey, electrifying the sell-out crowd of 6,267 spectators. The first match of the tournament was nothing short of spectacular, with both teams demonstrating skill and tenacity that set a high bar for the games to follow.

Off the back of his exclusive interview with Suisse Puck News, the game was off to an explosive start as Ambri-Piotta’s Alex Formenton showcased his prowess on the ice. Formenton, with remarkable agility and precision, scored the opening goal just 62 seconds into the game, slicing through Pardubice’s defense on a breakaway. He didn’t stop there; in the 9th minute, he doubled Ambri-Piotta’s lead by artfully redirecting a shot from teammate Jesse Virtanen, sending the puck flying past Pardubice’s goaltender Roman Will.

Despite the early setback, HC Dynamo Pardubice, displaying their resilience, gradually took control of the game. The Czech team’s dominance was evident in the shot count, with Pardubice ending the first period with a 9-4 shot advantage, which widened to 22-7 after two periods. This relentless pressure finally paid off when Matej Paulovic broke through Ambri-Piotta’s defenses in the 30th minute. The equalizer came from Thomas Zohorna in the 48th minute with a precise long-range shot, reigniting the hopes of the Pardubice fans.

As the game progressed to overtime, it was Lukas Sedlak who emerged as the hero for Pardubice. Seventy-five seconds into the extra period, he capitalized on an opponent’s turnover, scoring the decisive goal and sealing a thrilling 3-2 victory for his team.

While Dynamo Pardubice savors their triumphant start and a day of rest, HC Ambrì-Piotta must quickly regroup as they face KalPa Kuopio in their second match of the tournament.

The Spengler Cup’s 100th anniversary has begun in spectacular fashion, promising more adrenaline-pumping action and showcasing the best of international hockey talent. As teams vie for the prestigious title, the spirit of competition and sportsmanship that has defined the tournament for a century continues to thrive.

December 26, 2023