MoDo vs Södertälje SK on 23 January
On January 23, 2026, the Allsvenskan tournament will host a thrilling clash between MoDo and Södertälje SK at the Fjällräven Center in Östersund. With both teams hungry for points and vying for higher positions in the standings, this encounter promises to be a key battle in the ongoing race for playoff spots. Both teams bring different strengths and styles to the rink, making this a fascinating tactical matchup. At stake are crucial points that could determine their seeding for the postseason.
MoDo: Tactical Approach and Current Form
MoDo enters this match with a solid recent run of form, having won 3 of their last 5 games. Their tactical setup revolves around a strong forecheck and quick transition play, utilizing speed to break into the offensive zone. With a power play efficiency of 21.4%, they can capitalize on any mistakes made by Södertälje's penalty kill. MoDo's aggressive approach on the forecheck forces turnovers and creates odd-man rushes, giving them a quick-strike offense.
Key players include their captain, who anchors the team's power play, and their top sniper, who has been in excellent form recently, scoring 5 goals in the last 4 games. However, they will be missing their first-line center, who is out with a concussion, which will affect their offensive cohesion. The absence of this key player could disrupt their offensive flow and force the team to rely more heavily on their defensive game.
Södertälje SK: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Södertälje SK has been on a rollercoaster ride in their last 5 games, winning 2 and losing 3. Their primary tactical strength lies in their structured defense and strong puck management. They often control the pace of the game by maintaining possession and focusing on making short, precise passes in the neutral zone. While they are less aggressive than MoDo on the forecheck, they excel in shutting down the opposing team’s cycle game and forcing turnovers in the defensive zone.
Their power play has been a weak point, with an efficiency of just 15.7%, so MoDo could have the edge in special teams. However, Södertälje's penalty kill is a standout feature, operating at 85.3%, one of the best in the league. Key players include their star defenseman, who plays a critical role in the penalty kill and contributes to the transition game, and their veteran goaltender, whose excellent save percentage has kept them in many games this season. With no significant injuries or suspensions, Södertälje will have their full lineup available.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
In their last 5 encounters, MoDo has had the upper hand, winning 3 of the matchups. However, Södertälje SK has shown resilience, with two of their losses coming in tight one-goal games. Their last encounter ended in a 2-1 victory for MoDo, but the game was marked by a strong defensive performance from Södertälje, who kept the scoreline close despite being outshot. Historically, these teams have played tight, low-scoring games, suggesting that Södertälje’s defensive setup could prove troublesome for MoDo’s high-paced game.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
The key battles in this match will take place along the boards and in the neutral zone. MoDo's physical forecheckers will look to pressure Södertälje’s defensemen into making quick decisions, while Södertälje will rely on their defensive zone positioning to nullify MoDo’s rush. The success of MoDo’s forecheck will depend heavily on their ability to break through Södertälje’s blue-line coverage, particularly with the absence of their star center.
On special teams, the battle for the power play could be decisive. MoDo's power play has been their biggest weapon this season, and with Södertälje’s struggling penalty kill, it’s likely that MoDo will get several chances to take the lead. Södertälje's ability to kill off penalties without allowing significant chances could be the difference in the final score.
Match Scenario and Prediction
Expect this game to be a battle of styles, with MoDo pushing the tempo with their forechecking game and Södertälje trying to slow things down with a more disciplined, defensive approach. MoDo's power play could be the deciding factor, but Södertälje’s solid penalty kill and defensive structure could frustrate them. The game will likely come down to which team can dictate the pace. In the end, MoDo’s offensive firepower, combined with the home-ice advantage, should give them the upper hand. A narrow victory for MoDo seems the most probable outcome, with a final scoreline of 3-2, with a possible overtime finish.
Final Thoughts
This match will be a true test of MoDo’s offensive depth versus Södertälje's defensive discipline. MoDo will be looking to assert their will on the game early, while Södertälje will attempt to grind out a low-scoring affair. The key factors to watch will be how well Södertälje can handle MoDo’s aggressive forecheck and whether MoDo can exploit Södertälje’s penalty kill. As both teams chase crucial points, expect a tense, hard-fought contest.
Will Södertälje’s defense hold firm under pressure, or will MoDo’s power play decide the game? The outcome could hinge on these critical moments.
