The Dresden Eislöwen claimed the DEL2 championship title in a thrilling seventh game against the Ravensburg Towerstars on April 29, 2025. In a match filled with tension and excitement, Tomas Sykora scored the decisive goal during overtime, propelling the Eislöwen to a 2-1 victory and securing their promotion to the PENNY DEL.
The game, held at the CHG Arena in Ravensburg, began at 20:02, with both teams eager to seize the championship. The first period concluded scoreless, with the Towerstars showcasing their offensive prowess but unable to find the back of the net. Fans were on the edge of their seats as the teams battled through a scoreless first 20 minutes, with the Towerstars having numerous chances but failing to capitalize.
As the second period unfolded, the Eislöwen found their rhythm. Bruno Riedl opened the scoring for Dresden at 21:27, converting a brilliant pass from Travis Turnbull. This goal injected energy into the Eislöwen, who had been looking to regain control after losing their last two games in the series. However, the Towerstars were not to be outdone. They rallied back in the third period, applying relentless pressure on the Eislöwen's defense.
With the game hanging in the balance, Julian Eichinger set up Czarnik for a power play goal at 22:23, leveling the score at 1-1 and sending the match into overtime. The atmosphere in the arena was electric, with fans from both sides cheering passionately for their teams.
The overtime period was a nail-biter, with both teams creating scoring opportunities. The turning point came when Sykora, capitalizing on a power play, struck at 22:51, sealing the victory for the Eislöwen. The celebration erupted as players embraced, and the realization of their championship victory set in.
This win not only earned the Eislöwen the DEL2 championship but also marked a significant moment for the franchise as they prepare for the next level of competition in the PENNY DEL. "It was a long season for everyone, and I couldn’t be prouder of the team’s effort and resilience," said Eislöwen coach Niklas Sundblad after the victory. "We focused on moving forward and not dwelling on past games, and it paid off. Every game starts at zero, and we took our chance tonight!"
The Towerstars, despite their strong performance throughout the playoffs, faced disappointment at the end of the series. They had fought back from a 1-3 deficit in the finals, showcasing their determination and skill. However, the Eislöwen's ability to capitalize on key moments ultimately made the difference.
Throughout the playoffs, the Towerstars had enjoyed a remarkable home crowd, with their games drawing approximately 30,000 spectators in total. Their playoff journey included nine home games, with only the first quarterfinal against EV Landshut not sold out. The support from fans was palpable, creating an incredible atmosphere in the CHG Arena.
As the Eislöwen celebrate their championship, the implications of their victory extend beyond just the title. The win means that Düsseldorfer EG, who were facing relegation, will remain in the DEL, as the Towerstars were not eligible for promotion. This twist added another layer of intrigue to the championship finale.
Looking ahead, the Eislöwen are set to face new challenges in the PENNY DEL, where they will compete against some of the top teams in German ice hockey. Coach Sundblad, reflecting on his experience, noted, "I've been in similar situations before, and it’s always a mix of excitement and pressure. But we’re ready for this next step, and I believe we can compete at that level."
Fans are eager to see how the Eislöwen will adapt to the higher competition, and the organization is optimistic about their prospects. The journey to the championship was filled with ups and downs, but the Eislöwen have proven their mettle and determination.
As the dust settles on this thrilling season, the Eislöwen stand tall as champions, ready to embrace the challenges that await in the PENNY DEL. The victory not only signifies a new chapter for the team but also serves as a testament to their hard work and dedication throughout the season.
In conclusion, the Dresden Eislöwen's triumph in the DEL2 finals is a significant milestone for the franchise, and their promotion to the PENNY DEL opens exciting new opportunities. With the support of their fans and the leadership of their coaching staff, the Eislöwen are poised for a bright future in German ice hockey.
