Lowen Frankfurt vs ERC Ingolstadt on 18 January
The upcoming clash between Löwen Frankfurt and ERC Ingolstadt in the DEL tournament on January 18 promises to be a thrilling spectacle of hockey, with both teams bringing their best to the rink. Löwen Frankfurt is fighting for a playoff spot, while ERC Ingolstadt, with their recent surge in form, is eager to assert their dominance in the top ranks. The stakes couldn't be higher as both teams need points for their respective campaigns. Expect a highly competitive, physical, and tactical showdown at the Festhalle Frankfurt, where both teams will leave nothing on the ice.
Lowen Frankfurt: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Löwen Frankfurt enters this match with a solid recent record, having won 3 of their last 5 games. Their tactical setup revolves around a strong forecheck and aggressive play in the offensive zone. With a high shot volume (averaging 35 shots per game), they look to overwhelm opponents by maintaining pressure in the offensive zone. Their power play efficiency stands at 21.3%, which remains a strong asset in tight games. Defensively, their penalty kill is reliable, ranked 5th in the league with an 85% success rate.
Key player: Forward Justin Kirsch, a consistent playmaker, has been the engine of their offense with 12 assists in the last 10 games. His vision and ability to find open teammates will be crucial for Löwen Frankfurt's attacking plans. The team has also been boosted by the return of defenseman Maximilian Kammerer, whose shutdown ability in his own zone will be vital against Ingolstadt's skilled forwards. However, they will miss the presence of injured captain David Klatzow, whose leadership and experience are irreplaceable on the blue line.
ERC Ingolstadt: Tactical Approach and Current Form
ERC Ingolstadt enters the game in stellar form, having won 4 of their last 5 matches. They excel at a fast-paced, transition-oriented style of play, capitalizing on quick counter-attacks and generating scoring chances through their speed on the rush. Ingolstadt leads the league in shots on goal, averaging 36 per game, and they possess a lethal power play unit operating at 26%. Their defense has been solid, ranking 3rd in the league in goals allowed, thanks to a disciplined system that limits high-danger chances.
Key player: Forward Brett Findlay is in excellent form, with 8 goals in the last 10 games. His combination of speed and finishing ability makes him a constant threat on the break, and he’ll be crucial in exploiting any defensive lapses from Löwen Frankfurt. Defenseman Yannick Seidenberg has been the backbone of the defense, with a remarkable +12 plus-minus rating, and his ability to clear the puck out of the zone will be key in preventing Frankfurt’s forecheck from generating momentum.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
In the last five encounters between these two teams, Ingolstadt has had the upper hand, winning 3 of those matchups. However, the games have been tightly contested, with two of the matches being decided by a single goal. Frankfurt will look to avenge a recent 4-3 loss in Ingolstadt earlier this season, where they struggled to maintain defensive discipline in the final minutes of the game. The psychological edge will likely be with Ingolstadt, who have been the more consistent team this season, but Frankfurt’s aggressive forechecking style has shown they can challenge even the most solid defenses.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
The first key battle will be between Frankfurt's forecheck and Ingolstadt’s defensemen. If Löwen Frankfurt can pressure the puck carriers and force mistakes in the defensive zone, they could create opportunities for turnovers and quick goals. This will be a crucial area for Frankfurt, as their success depends on dictating the pace through aggressive puck pursuit.
Another important battle will take place in front of the net, where Ingolstadt’s physicality will clash with Frankfurt’s defensive presence. The battle between Ingolstadt’s Brett Findlay and Frankfurt’s netminder will determine who controls the crease, and the winner of this duel could very well decide the game's outcome. Findlay’s ability to get to the front of the net will be vital to Ingolstadt’s success, while Frankfurt’s defense will need to clear traffic in front of their goalie to prevent second-chance opportunities.
Match Scenario and Prediction
Expect a fast-paced game with plenty of shots on goal from both teams. Frankfurt will look to impose their forecheck and maintain offensive zone pressure, while Ingolstadt will rely on their counter-attacks and power play to break through Frankfurt’s defense. Both teams have been strong in their recent form, but the key factor will be Ingolstadt’s ability to capitalize on their power play and transition game.
Prediction: ERC Ingolstadt will edge out Löwen Frankfurt in a tight contest, 4-3. With their potent power play and the offensive depth they bring, Ingolstadt has the tools to overcome Frankfurt’s aggressive style. Expect a high-energy affair with lots of physical play and key moments in special teams. The most likely outcome is a regulation win for Ingolstadt, with both teams playing a tactical chess match that will be decided by who can execute in the critical moments.
Final Thoughts
This matchup will answer whether Löwen Frankfurt’s relentless forechecking can disrupt Ingolstadt’s fast-paced transition game. The game’s outcome hinges on who controls the pace and can execute better in high-pressure moments. With so much on the line, both teams will bring their A-game, making this a must-watch contest.
