ZSC Lions - Färjestad 2-1

The final was a tense and evenly matched contest, with both teams showcasing disciplined defensive play and high-tempo hockey. The opening period saw strong goaltending on both ends, but ZSC struck first late in the frame. At 17:48, a scramble in front of Färjestad’s net allowed Andrighetto to find the loose puck and slip it between the pads of Maxime Lagacé, giving the Lions a 1-0 lead heading into the first intermission.

Färjestad came out aggressively in the second period, creating several high-danger opportunities. However, Hrubec stood tall in net, making key saves, including stopping a breakaway from Lucas Forsell. Despite the Swedes’ pressure, Zurich doubled their lead at 32:33 with a beautifully executed play. Denis Malgin carried the puck through the neutral zone before passing to Rudolfs Balcers, who found Andrighetto in the near circle. The Swiss forward made no mistake, firing a one-timer past Lagacé to make it 2-0.

Trailing by two, Färjestad desperately sought a way back into the game in the third period. Their persistence paid off at 51:05 when Per Åslund capitalized on a power play, redirecting a shot from David Tomášek past Hrubec to bring the Swedish side within one.

With time winding down, Färjestad pressed for the equalizer, pulling their goaltender in the final minutes for an extra attacker. However, ZSC’s defense remained resilient, and Hrubec continued to make critical saves, including a key stop on Oskar Steen in the dying moments.

As the final buzzer sounded, the Swiss Life Arena erupted in celebration as the ZSC Lions secured their historic Champions Hockey League title, bringing European club hockey’s most prestigious trophy back to Switzerland.

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