The Graz99ers return to the electric atmosphere of the Merkur Eisstadion to host French CHL debutants the Bordeaux Boxers in a dramatic cross-border clash between the reigning French and ICE HL champions.
- Bordeaux earned a historic point in a tight 2-1 overtime defeat
- Quentin Tomasino scored the club’s first-ever CHL goal 12 minutes into the game
- Graz seeking to bounce back after a late lapse cost them against Fribourg on GD1
Both teams enter this game looking to get back on track after opening their Champions Hockey League campaigns with setbacks, yet they do so carrying fierce determination.
Bordeaux arrive in Austria with the fearless mindset of a competition newcomer. Fully unburdened by prior experience and any expectations, the reigning French champions bring high-octane energy. For visiting Bordeux, the debut journey into the CHL has already proven they do belong on the big stage.
Bordeaux played a hard-fought, tight inaugural game, showcasing an impressive performance, scoring their first-ever CHL goal just 12 minutes into the game thanks to Quentin Tomasino and a stellar team effort. Only Klagenfurt’s powerplay goal in overtime made the difference in Bordeaux’s 2-1 loss in the game, earning them one thoroughly deserved point in the Regular Season Standings.
“Bordeaux are a big unknown for us. I know their head coach, Olivier Dimet, from the national youth team. We’ll just have to wait and see! Graz doesn’t get to see French teams all that often.”Philipp Pinter, Graz99ers Sport Director
Meanwhile, Graz99ers welcome Bordeaux armed with vision and heavy home fan support to rectify the late-game mistakes that cost them victory over Fribourg who netted three goals in the final frame to steal the win.
Graz fought hard and fiercely, only to see the game slip through their fingers during a fateful final period. Now, once again on home-ice, they are armed with valuable lessons learned and ready to turn the page and put those late-game mistakes far behind them.
“Graz are the reigning ICE HL champions. I expect a very intense and physical game. We will have to be ready from the start, stay disciplined and be able to match their pace. It will be a very good test for our team.”Olivier Dimet, Bordeaux Boxers Head Coach
A lot remains open heading into this game, as both sides proved they aren't out without a chance in their season-openers, but one thing remains sure - one of these two contenders will turn their seasons around with some much-needed points from this game!
Don't miss the action on Saturday, 6 September at 18:30 CEST!