The DEL finals are heating up as the Eisbären Berlin face off against the Kölner Haie in what promises to be an exhilarating best-of-seven series. The first game is set for Thursday, April 17, 2025, at 19:30 in the Uber Arena, Berlin. This matchup marks a significant moment for both teams, especially for the Kölner Haie, who are vying for their first title since 2002.
The Eisbären Berlin come into this final as the defending champions and have been a dominant force in the league, having won the title three times in the last four years. Their path to the finals was nothing short of impressive, as they swept Adler Mannheim 4-0 in the semi-finals, showcasing their formidable skills and teamwork. Coach Serge Aubin has led the team with a strategy that emphasizes both offensive firepower and solid defensive play, making them a tough opponent for any team.
On the other hand, the Kölner Haie are looking to break a long title drought that dates back to their last championship win in 2002. This year marks their first appearance in the finals in 11 years, a fact that has energized their fanbase. The Haie fought hard to reach this stage, overcoming the ERC Ingolstadt in a thrilling semi-final series that concluded with a 3-2 victory in Game 6, which went into overtime. This dramatic win has set the stage for their return to the finals, and they are determined to seize this opportunity.
The excitement surrounding the finals is palpable, with fans eagerly anticipating the games. The schedule is set with games every two days, leading up to a potential Game 7 on April 29, 2025, if necessary. The complete schedule is as follows:
- Game 1: Eisbären Berlin vs. Kölner Haie - April 17, 2025, 19:30
- Game 2: Kölner Haie vs. Eisbären Berlin - April 19, 2025, 19:00
- Game 3: Eisbären Berlin vs. Kölner Haie - April 21, 2025, 16:30
- Game 4: Kölner Haie vs. Eisbären Berlin - April 23, 2025, 19:30
- Game 5: Eisbären Berlin vs. Kölner Haie - April 25, 2025 (if necessary)
- Game 6: Kölner Haie vs. Eisbären Berlin - April 27, 2025 (if necessary)
- Game 7: Eisbären Berlin vs. Kölner Haie - April 29, 2025 (if necessary)
For fans eager to catch the action, the games will be broadcast live on DF1 and Magenta Sport. DF1 will air the finals for free, making it accessible to all viewers. This partnership is a significant development for fans, as it allows for broader access to the games, especially given that DF1 has recently taken over from ServusTV Deutschland and is now available nationwide via cable, satellite, and streaming services.
Magenta Sport, while a paid service, also offers comprehensive coverage of all DEL games, including the finals. The subscription options are flexible, catering to both Telekom customers and non-customers with various pricing plans. For those outside Germany, Sportdeutschland.TV provides a paid streaming option for viewers in Austria and Switzerland.
As the finals approach, the anticipation builds not just for the games, but for the stories that will unfold on the ice. The Kölner Haie, under the guidance of coach Kari Jalonen, are looking to overcome the ghosts of past finals where they fell short in 2003, 2008, 2013, and 2014. This year, they are determined to rewrite their narrative and claim a long-awaited title.
With both teams bringing their A-game, the series is expected to be a thrilling contest. The Eisbären Berlin, with their championship pedigree, will be looking to assert their dominance early, while the Kölner Haie will aim to make a statement and show that they are a force to be reckoned with.
As the puck drops on Game 1, fans will be on the edge of their seats, ready to witness what could be a historic series. Will the Eisbären Berlin continue their reign as champions, or will the Kölner Haie rise to the occasion and end their title drought? One thing is for sure: this final series will be one for the history books.
