The Kölner Haie have made a triumphant return to the final of the German Ice Hockey League (DEL) for the first time in eleven years, defeating ERC Ingolstadt 3-2 in a thrilling overtime victory during Game 6 of their semi-final series on Monday, April 14, 2025. This victory not only secured the decisive fourth win in the best-of-seven series but also marked the Haie’s ninth appearance in the DEL playoff finals.
In front of a packed crowd of 18,600 at the sold-out Lanxess Arena, the Haie showcased remarkable resilience after falling behind 0-2 early in the match. The comeback was sparked by captain Moritz Müller, who played a crucial role in the game, contributing to all three goals scored by his team. Müller’s leadership was vital as he netted the first goal for the Haie, turning the tide in favor of the home team.
The game started with a quick offensive display from Ingolstadt. Austin Keating opened the scoring in the 7th minute with a deft deflection from a shot by Phillip Rosa-Preto. Just three minutes later, Wayne Simpson doubled the lead for the guests, capitalizing on a rebound to make it 2-0. The Haie faced an uphill battle as they struggled to find their rhythm in the first period.
However, Müller ignited hope for the Kölner fans in the 15th minute. After a wrap-around maneuver, he sent the puck sharply towards the net, where it ricocheted off an Ingolstadt skate and into the goal, bringing the score to 1-2. This goal was a pivotal moment, injecting energy into the Haie’s performance as they pressed for an equalizer.
The second period saw both teams exchanging chances, but neither could find the back of the net. The Haie had several opportunities, including a near miss by Frederik Storm, who hit the crossbar. The intensity of the game continued to build as both teams fought for control, but the score remained 1-2 heading into the final period.
As the third period commenced, the Haie came out with renewed determination. Gregor MacLeod, a key player for the team, leveled the score in the 46th minute with a brilliant individual effort, maneuvering through the Ingolstadt defense and firing a wrist shot past the goaltender, Christian Heljanko. The goal sent the home crowd into a frenzy and set the stage for a nail-biting finish.
Despite several opportunities for both teams, the score remained tied at 2-2, forcing the game into overtime. The Haie entered the extra period with momentum, having outplayed Ingolstadt in the latter stages of regulation. Kölner goaltender Julius Hudacek made crucial saves to keep his team in the game, ensuring that the Haie maintained a chance to secure victory.
In the first overtime, the Haie faced a moment of adversity when they found themselves short-handed. However, they managed to withstand the pressure and launched a counterattack. Justin Schütz, who had not scored in the playoffs until this game, seized his moment in the 70th minute. After receiving a pass from Müller, he broke away and skillfully outmaneuvered Heljanko to score the game-winning goal, sending the Kölner fans into a state of euphoria.
“This was my most important goal of the season. I knew it would go in eventually,” Schütz exclaimed after the game, reflecting on the pressure he had felt throughout the playoffs. His goal solidified the Haie’s place in the finals, where they will face off against the Eisbären Berlin, who defeated Adler Mannheim 4-0 in their semi-final series.
The final series will begin on Thursday, April 17, 2025, in Berlin, with the first game scheduled for 7:30 PM. The Haie will then return to their home ice for Game 2 on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at 7 PM. This marks the first time the Kölner Haie will compete for the championship since 2014, and the team is eager to capture their ninth title, having last won the championship in 2002.
As the players celebrated their victory, Hudacek addressed the fans, declaring, “We want to bring the cup home.” Müller echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need to focus on the final series ahead. “It’s important to say that this was one round; now it’s time for the final. We will enjoy this moment, but we need to keep our eyes on the prize.”
The Haie’s remarkable journey through the playoffs has showcased their resilience and determination, overcoming challenges and proving themselves against formidable opponents. With a strong team spirit and the support of their fans, they are ready to face the Eisbären Berlin in what promises to be an electrifying final series.
As the excitement builds, fans are encouraged to secure their tickets for the upcoming games. Tickets for the first two home games of the final will be available starting Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at 10:00 AM online and at the HAIEstore. Each person can purchase up to six tickets, ensuring that as many fans as possible can support their team in this crucial championship run.
With the stage set and the stakes higher than ever, the Kölner Haie are poised to make history as they chase the ultimate prize in German ice hockey.
