Straubing Tigers vs Lowen Frankfurt on January 23
The DEL clash between Straubing Tigers and Löwen Frankfurt on January 23 is set to be a titanic battle that will not only define playoff seeding but also showcase the tactical acumen of two of Germany's premier hockey teams. The game will take place at the renowned Eisstadion Straubing, where both sides will look to make their mark in a highly competitive season. With everything to play for, the stakes couldn’t be higher: a win will significantly boost either team's chances of securing a top-four finish, a crucial spot for direct qualification into the postseason. For Löwen Frankfurt, currently on the fringes of the playoff picture, the pressure is mounting. Straubing, however, are firmly in contention for a strong seeding and will aim to assert their dominance. The puck drops at 19:30 local time, and the outcome of this match could resonate through the rest of the season.
Straubing Tigers: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Straubing Tigers have been a formidable force throughout the 2025-2026 season, riding on a balanced yet aggressive playing style. Their last five games have been a demonstration of their disciplined defensive system and explosive counter-attacks. With 18 goals scored and only 11 conceded in their last five outings, their form has been solid. Their defensive structure is centered around a tight forecheck, designed to suffocate opposing forwards and force turnovers in the neutral zone. This pressure allows them to quickly transition to offense, where they thrive with quick passes and smart puck movement. The Tigers lead the DEL in shots on goal, averaging over 33 per game, and their shooting accuracy is above 10%, a significant factor in their attacking prowess.
On the special teams front, Straubing’s power play stands at an impressive 25%, ranking among the league’s elite. This efficiency, combined with a penalty kill percentage of 85%, makes them a well-rounded team capable of dealing with all situations. Their primary engine is the dynamic playmaking ability of their captain, who’s not only a scoring threat but also excels at setting up teammates in tight spaces.
However, the Tigers will be without one of their key defenders, sidelined due to injury. This could pose a challenge as the defense is central to their game plan. The loss of this player forces an adjustment in defensive pairings, potentially opening up gaps in coverage. In the absence of a key player, expect other veterans to step up in a leadership role, both offensively and defensively.
Lowen Frankfurt: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Löwen Frankfurt, while currently fighting for playoff positioning, have shown signs of improvement with a solid 3-2-0 record in their last five games. Their tactical approach is centered around high-intensity forechecking and relentless pressure in the offensive zone. Their aggressive style is a double-edged sword; while they often force turnovers, it can lead to defensive lapses if their pressure isn’t maintained. Frankfurt’s forecheck often leads to odd-man rushes, with their forwards using speed and skill to create scoring chances. Their shooting percentage has been steady, although lower than Straubing’s, sitting at around 8%, which can be a critical factor in a high-intensity match like this.
On the power play, Frankfurt has had mixed results, with a conversion rate of just 18%. Their power play has been stagnant at times, primarily because of poor puck movement and lack of execution in the final third. They will need to find a rhythm against Straubing's strong penalty kill, which is one of the best in the league. Defensively, Frankfurt struggles to clear the puck out of their zone under pressure, which might be a point of concern against a team like Straubing that capitalizes on turnovers.
The Löwen will need standout performances from their star forward, who has been the driving force behind the attack. His ability to break through neutral zone defenses and generate chances with his speed will be crucial. Additionally, their goaltender, who has been shaky in recent games, must rediscover his form to keep them competitive. If the goalie struggles, it could be a long night for Frankfurt, as Straubing’s offensive depth is one of the league’s best.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
When examining recent meetings between these two teams, Straubing has held a slight edge, winning 3 of the last 5 matchups. However, the games have often been tight, with three of them being decided by one goal, demonstrating the competitive nature of these two sides. A particularly memorable encounter earlier this season saw Straubing edge out Frankfurt in a high-scoring affair, 5-4, where both teams displayed their attacking prowess. Löwen Frankfurt, however, have proven that they can match Straubing’s intensity when they are on form, with their power play capitalizing on Straubing’s occasional lapses.
One of the psychological factors at play here will be the pressure on Frankfurt, who are outside the playoff spots and need a win to stay within touching distance. Straubing, meanwhile, will have the confidence of being a top-tier team but must avoid complacency. The result of this matchup could set the tone for the remainder of the season for both clubs.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
The key battle in this match will likely be in the neutral zone, where both teams will look to establish their forecheck. Straubing’s ability to limit turnovers and control the puck will be a crucial factor in whether they can break through Frankfurt’s pressure. For Frankfurt, the battle will be to generate enough offensive chances to make up for their shaky defensive zone play. Specifically, look for the matchup between Straubing’s top defenseman and Frankfurt’s leading forward. If Straubing can neutralize Frankfurt’s primary offensive threat, it could take away much of Frankfurt’s firepower.
Another critical zone will be in front of both goals. With goaltending being a potential weak spot for Frankfurt, the Tigers will look to create traffic in front of their netminder, testing his ability to handle high-pressure situations. Conversely, if Frankfurt’s forwards can get to the front of Straubing’s net, they may be able to exploit any defensive gaps caused by their aggressive forechecking.
Match Scenario and Prediction
Given the tactical analysis, the most likely scenario is a fast-paced game, with both teams looking to capitalize on turnovers and create odd-man rushes. Straubing’s structured defense and transition game will be key to stifling Frankfurt’s offensive threats. Frankfurt’s only chance to upset Straubing is to capitalize on special teams and get past their defense with quick strikes in transition. Expect a tight game, with both teams trading goals, but ultimately Straubing’s overall depth and defensive structure should see them through.
Prediction: Straubing Tigers 4 - 2 Löwen Frankfurt. Straubing will likely take the win in regulation, with their power play being a decisive factor in the match. Frankfurt may find success early but will struggle to maintain consistency, especially in the third period.
Final Thoughts
This match is one of those games that could define the trajectory for both teams in the second half of the season. Straubing’s playoff position is solid, but they must continue to push for a higher seed, while Frankfurt needs to find a way to salvage their playoff hopes. Ultimately, Straubing’s structure and defensive stability give them the edge, but if Frankfurt’s aggressive forechecking can unsettle Straubing’s rhythm, they could surprise.
The question this match will answer: Can Löwen Frankfurt impose their high-pressure game on one of the league's most defensively sound teams, or will Straubing’s discipline and depth carry them to victory?
