Motor Ceske Budejovice vs Skoda Plzen on January 16
On January 16, 2026, fans of Czech hockey will be treated to an exhilarating encounter as Motor Ceske Budejovice face off against Skoda Plzen in the Extra-liga. The stakes are high for both teams, with Ceske Budejovice looking to solidify their playoff position while Plzen aims to close the gap in the standings. With both teams possessing tactical depth and key players in form, this match promises to be a thrilling spectacle. The venue, the Budvar Arena, will play host to this crucial clash at 18:00 CET.
Motor Ceske Budejovice: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Motor Ceske Budejovice come into this match with a solid recent record, having won 4 of their last 5 games. Their tactical setup revolves around a strong forecheck, with an emphasis on maintaining high pressure in the offensive zone. The team has a high shots-on-goal average, ranking among the league's best with 33.4 shots per game. On the defensive side, their penalty kill has been highly effective, operating at a 85% success rate, making them a formidable opponent on the ice.
Their offense is spearheaded by star forward Jakub Kovar, who has been in red-hot form with 8 goals and 12 assists in the last 10 games. The team also relies heavily on their power play, where they boast a success rate of 22%. However, they will be without defenseman David Kucera, who is serving a suspension, a blow to their defensive depth. The key to Ceske Budejovice's success will be their ability to execute the forecheck and capitalize on power play opportunities.
Skoda Plzen: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Skoda Plzen enters this game having won 3 out of their last 5 matches, showing improvement after a mid-season slump. They are known for their balanced approach, where they focus on a fast, up-tempo game combined with disciplined defensive play. Their forecheck is more conservative than Ceske Budejovice's, but they excel in transition hockey, with quick counter-attacks after turnovers. Plzen’s shooting percentage is also a key strength, currently sitting at 12.1%, one of the highest in the league.
Captain Petr Straka has been leading by example with a team-high 24 points and has been integral in both offensive zone entries and facilitating the power play. Skoda Plzen’s power play efficiency stands at 18.5%, but they need to improve in this area to match the quality of their opponents. The team will be without forward Tomas Urban, who has been sidelined due to injury, creating a gap in their offensive firepower. The battle for puck possession will be crucial, with Plzen needing to win more faceoffs and maintain a strong defensive presence to stifle Motor’s high-paced attack.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
The last 5 encounters between these two teams have been tightly contested, with Motor Ceske Budejovice edging out Skoda Plzen in 3 of the last 5 matchups. The games have often been decided by a single goal, with both teams showing a tendency for tight, low-scoring affairs. A recurring theme in these encounters has been Ceske Budejovice's success in special teams, particularly in penalty kills, where they've frustrated Plzen’s power play consistently. The last time they met, Ceske Budejovice won 4-3 in overtime, a thrilling finish that showcased both teams’ resilience and tactical awareness.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
The first critical battle will take place in the neutral zone, where the outcome of the faceoffs will be vital. Both teams rely on quick transitions, and whichever team gains the upper hand in possession will have a significant advantage. Another key area will be the battle on the boards, where Motor Ceske Budejovice's physical play could give them an edge. Look for their wingers to pin down Plzen's defensemen and create space for Kovar and his line-mates.
In terms of individual duels, the matchup between Ceske Budejovice’s top center Jakub Kovar and Plzen’s captain Petr Straka will be a fascinating one. Kovar's ability to create chances in the high slot and on the power play will be tested by Straka’s defensive awareness and faceoff proficiency. How these two key players perform could very well determine the outcome of the game.
Match Scenario and Prediction
This game will likely be a tightly contested battle, with both teams playing a disciplined defensive game and looking for opportunities on the counter. Ceske Budejovice will look to impose their aggressive forecheck and capitalize on their superior power play, while Plzen will aim to exploit the gaps left by Kucera’s suspension and Urban’s injury. Expect a game that sees both teams battling for control in the neutral zone and on special teams.
In terms of statistics, the expected outcome is a close one. Ceske Budejovice’s superior special teams could give them the edge in a game decided by power plays. Final prediction: Motor Ceske Budejovice 3-2 Skoda Plzen (in regulation), with a key performance from Kovar on the power play.
Final Thoughts
This matchup will answer the question of whether Motor Ceske Budejovice can continue their dominance in the special teams department and if Skoda Plzen’s offensive depth can overcome their injury concerns. With both teams having plenty to play for in the standings, expect a fiery and intense encounter. Who will emerge victorious in this tactical battle? The answer awaits on January 16.
