Davos vs EV Zug on 27 January
The stage is set for a thrilling clash between Davos and EV Zug in the National League on January 27, 2026. Both teams are fighting for vital points, and this encounter promises to be an intense, high-energy spectacle. With both sides having strong ambitions this season, every moment of this match will count. The match will take place at the Vaillant Arena in Davos, with the puck drop scheduled for 19:45 local time. While the rink is indoors, ensuring that weather does not affect the play, the intensity on the ice will be undeniable.
Davos: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Davos comes into this matchup with solid momentum, having secured three wins in their last five games. Their game plan revolves around a balanced attack and tight defensive structure. The team’s forecheck is aggressive, aiming to force turnovers in the neutral zone and transition quickly to offense. Their power play efficiency is one of the best in the league, boasting a success rate of 25%. With a shots-on-goal average of 34 per game, they are relentless in their pursuit of scoring opportunities.
Key players like captain Andres Ambuhl and star forward Andres Seidenberg will be vital to their success. Ambuhl, with his leadership and playmaking abilities, sets up many offensive chances, while Seidenberg provides the finishing touch with his accuracy and speed. However, Davos will be without defender Fabian Heldner due to an ankle injury, which could impact their depth on the blue line. This loss may force a shift in their defensive strategies and the use of their defensive pairings.
EV Zug: Tactical Approach and Current Form
EV Zug enters the match with a strong recent record, winning four of their last five games. Their style is fast-paced and built around a high press in all three zones, applying constant pressure on their opponents. Their transition game is quick and fluid, with forwards consistently dropping back to support the defense before breaking out at speed. The team is particularly potent on the penalty kill, maintaining a 90% efficiency rate, making them difficult to break down on special teams.
Key players for EV Zug include the dynamic duo of forward Lino Martschini and defenseman Jan Kovar. Martschini has been in fine form, leading the team in points and goals, while Kovar’s ability to control the puck and orchestrate plays from the blue line makes him a key contributor. However, the absence of goaltender Leonardo Genoni, who is out with a wrist injury, may be a concern. His replacement, Lukas Meili, has big skates to fill, and his performance in this game will be crucial to Zug’s success.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
The past few encounters between Davos and EV Zug have been tightly contested, with the teams alternating wins. The last five games between these two clubs have been split 2-2-1, highlighting just how evenly matched they are. The games have also been physical affairs, with both teams not shying away from throwing heavy hits. The intensity of these matchups has created a psychological rivalry, with both teams knowing that a victory will give them a psychological edge in the playoff race. Historically, Davos has had a slight edge in home games, but Zug has shown they are capable of stealing wins on the road.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
One of the critical duels in this game will be between Davos’ top-line forward Andres Seidenberg and EV Zug’s defenseman Jan Kovar. Seidenberg’s speed and goal-scoring ability make him a constant threat, but Kovar’s defensive positioning and ability to disrupt plays will be key in limiting his effectiveness. Another key battle will be in net, where the performance of Lukas Meili will be under intense scrutiny as he replaces the injured Genoni. If Meili can stay composed under pressure and make key saves, EV Zug could walk away with a vital road win.
In terms of the ice, the decisive areas will be the neutral zone and special teams. Both teams thrive on creating turnovers in the middle of the rink and quickly transitioning to offense. Whoever dominates this area will have a significant advantage. On the power play, both teams have potent units, so penalties could play a decisive role in the final outcome.
Match Scenario and Prediction
Given the current form of both teams, this matchup will likely be an end-to-end affair. Davos will look to use their physicality and home ice advantage to pressure EV Zug, while Zug will rely on their speed and defensive discipline to weather the storm. With the absence of Davos’ Fabian Heldner and EV Zug’s Leonardo Genoni, both teams will have to adjust their game plans, but the deeper squad depth of Zug, particularly in terms of offensive firepower, gives them the edge. Expect a high-intensity game, with a final score likely in favor of EV Zug. We predict a 4-3 win for EV Zug, with the deciding goal coming in the final minutes of regulation.
Final Thoughts
This match will answer the question: Can EV Zug maintain their momentum without their star goalie, or will Davos capitalize on their home ice advantage to take the win? Both teams have a lot at stake, and the outcome of this game will have significant implications for the playoff picture. Get ready for a thrilling, hard-fought battle on the ice.
