AZ Havířov claimed a thrilling 5-3 victory over LHK Jestřábi Prostějov in the opening game of the 2025/26 Czech 2. Liga final series, taking a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven showdown for promotion to the Maxa Liga.
The decisive moment came in the 59th minute when Havířov broke a tense deadlock, ultimately securing the win with a late surge that included four goals in the third period. The home side, which finished atop the eastern conference during the regular season, earned home-ice advantage for the series opener.
Goals for Havířov were scored by Klimíček (assisted by Pindel and Zaťovič) at 28:00, followed by Šuhaj’s two tallies at 53:00 and 57:00 and Valenta’s assist on the first Šuhaj goal. Prostějov managed three responses but could not overcome the deficit.
The victory sets the stage for Game 2, scheduled for Friday, April 17, 2026, at 17:30, again at the Havířov Ice Arena. After a brief break, the series will resume on Monday, April 20, 2026, at 18:00, with Game 4 following on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at the same time.
Fans can stream the entire final series live via Czechicehockey.tv, while betting markets remain active with TipSport offering odds on the matchup. The rivalry between the two clubs has long been marked by intense on-ice competition and passionate fan support, adding extra stakes to this postseason clash.
With both teams having dominated the regular season and playoffs en route to the final, the winner will earn promotion to the Maxa Liga for the upcoming campaign. Havířov now looks to build on its opening-game momentum as the series shifts to Prostějov for Games 3 and 5, if necessary.
