We’re back with another Pro Division mid-season report. It might be a little late, but this is always one of the most interesting points in the season. By now, early surprises start to feel more real, trends begin to take shape, and you get a much clearer sense of which teams are actually building something and which ones are starting to slip.

In this report, we’ll take a closer look at a few teams that are really finding their rhythm right now and putting together strong runs, as well as those that just cannot seem to get things going. Some sides are starting to look like genuine contenders, while others are still trying to figure things out and live up to what was expected of them.

We’ll also take a look at some individual performances. A few players have really stepped up this season and gone beyond what anyone expected, becoming key pieces for their teams. At the same time, there are players who have not quite delivered so far and are still looking to hit their stride.

Group 1

HC Lugano eSports 
 

Lugano started their season a bit slowly, even taking a short break from ECL in the opening weeks. At the time, it looked like a risky approach, but it has clearly worked in their favour. Since settling into their rhythm, they’ve posted an impressive 2.65 points per game, putting them at the very top of the Pro division standings, just ahead of NOSTREETSPORTS over in group 2 on 2.6.

So far, the team has been heavily driven by a strong duo, with @Aigeu and @jasomnajlepsi standing out as the main difference-makers. Both have been consistently involved in scoring and playmaking, and their chemistry has been a key reason for Lugano’s strong form.

Defensively, they’ve also been outstanding. Their 1.76 goals against average shows just how hard they are to break down. On top of that, they are still among the top teams in goals for, ranking third in their group. That combination of elite defence and high-end offensive production is exactly why they sit at the top right now.

Important games coming up: Mrazix

Västerås IK 

Last year's underdog MoDo changes colors and switches over to Västerås. The squad stays mainly the same; their first-round exit last year vs xBots had a lot of teams raising their eyebrows on how well they played, and they keep on grinding this season. Placing them 4th in group 1 in points per game sets them up in a similar situation as last season, now with the hope to advance to the quarterfinals.

The heart and soul of this team remains the same, @Mathiasgamer_07 & @MrXbox79 keeps this team going strong this season. They've made some acquisitions in the offseason that shows they want to go further than the quarterfinals. Their starting five is still unclear, but the name that stands out most is former Djurgården forward @amadee21, he brings much-needed experience to this mostly Swedish team and might just be what this team needs to make it far this postseason.

Important games coming up: Starstrucked

Starstrucked 

Through the qualifiers, Starstrucked took a comfortable route to the Pro division, and rightfully so. Captained by a long-time ECL player, @Wpaananethey have established themselves as favourites in group 1, with an average of 4.85 goals per game and leading group 1 in that category, they've shown everyone that they're here to win.

Their calling card is their offense, as mentioned, but their Achilles heel is clearly the central server. As the season is almost over, they need to find a fix for their struggles on the away server, a central server opponent from group 2 in the playoffs could be costly for the Finns.

This is their season; now is the time to show up. Last season, most of these players did not make it far with their respective teams, but the duo of @Hassegamer_480 and their captain could be what they need to make a deep run; their center @vilppijoona also possesses all the tools to be the best in the Pro division.

Important games coming up: Västerås IK

Puck Over Glass 

What more can you say? The team that won the regular season last year now finds itself staring at the very real possibility of relegation games. It’s a dramatic fall, and it highlights just how quickly things can change from one season to the next. Losing a top scorer and a starting goaltender was always going to hurt, and so far their replacements haven’t been able to match the impact or consistency that was lost.

Captain @knuzon deserves credit for putting this roster together, but this is where leadership really gets tested. Guiding a team through adversity is a different challenge altogether, and they’ll need a strong response in these final games. @Lotiseva has stepped up and leads the team in points, but the burden on him is too heavy right now. Without more support across the lineup, it’s hard to see them turning things around.

There’s still a small window left to change their fate. With only a few games remaining, every point matters, and they’ll need to find another level quickly. If they can build even a bit of momentum and get contributions from more players, they might still avoid the relegation games. If not, it will be a tough ending to what once looked like a very promising run.

Important games coming up: Aspyre
 

Conexion 

A team that not many had on their bingo cards to make the playoffs ahead of the season, and they’ve turned into one of the more pleasant surprises so far. It’s been refreshing to watch a group that clearly plays for each other, with strong chemistry and a real team-first mentality. They play for the badge on their chest, not the name on their back, and that’s been a big part of why they’ve been able to stay competitive.

One player that really stands out is @Flo_goes_grazy (Flgr93). He’s been piling up goals, currently sitting on 33, which puts him 8th in the league. If he can push that total closer to 50, it would go a long way in cementing his status as one of the top forwards at the pro level and a key piece for this team moving forward.

With their playoff hopes still very much alive, they find themselves right on the edge in 8th place. There’s no room for error now, though. Their next eight games will define their season, and whether they can handle that pressure will ultimately decide if this story continues into the playoffs or falls just short.

Important games coming up: Fallen Rangers

Group 2

NOSTREETSPORTS

A team that has had its ups and downs over the years, from winning the regular season a few seasons ago to stepping away for a period, and now returning to the top, it’s a great turnaround to see. A big part of that resurgence comes down to their captain @Bot_hene, who has put together a roster that knows how to win and compete at a high level.

One of the standout additions to the team came from Aspyre, with last season’s top-scoring defenseman @LeiskaViis7 making the switch to forward. That move has paid off, as he’s adapted well to his new role and added another dimension to their offense. His ability to produce in a more creative position has clearly given the team an extra boost heading into the playoffs.

If NOSTREETSPORTS can maintain their strong form, currently 8-1-1 in their last 10, they’ll be right at the top of Group 2 by the time the regular season wraps up. What makes them especially dangerous is their balance. They’re solid defensively while still being able to generate plenty of offense, and that combination makes them a serious threat. If they keep this level up, they’re a team everyone else will have to keep a close eye on.

Important games coming up: Reality Check
 

Grim Reapers HC

If there is one thing these articles does, is prove that these are all opinions and shouldn't be taken too seriously, in the Pro season preview Grim Reapers HC were projected (wrongly so) to miss the playoffs, and they showed everyone that won't be the case, they managed to exactly the opposite of the article, and string together wins, now they sit on the right side of the playoff line.

Their strong suit this season has been closing out games, with 6 wins with a one-goal lead has shown their toughness and resiliency to win games that could go either way. That's the sign of a strong team, and with a few games to go, if they can turn a few more overtime games their way, they'll be in a good spot for the playoffs.

Important games coming up: Otukset
 

Sunne IK Esport

Sunne IK came into the season with fairly low expectations, but even with that in mind, their campaign has been more disappointing than most could have predicted. The losses have continued to stack up, and they now find themselves stuck in the relegation zone. Time is starting to run out, and unless they can turn things around quickly, they’re heading toward a long stint in Lite next season.

Right now, nothing seems to be going their way. When it rains, it pours, and Sunne IK haven’t been able to stop the slide. One of the biggest issues has been their defensive struggles, with a goals against average hovering close to four. That kind of number makes it incredibly difficult to stay competitive, no matter how much effort is put in elsewhere. While the roster still has some experienced players, that hasn’t translated into results on the ice, and they’ll need a major shift in performance if they want to avoid relegation.

Important games coming up: SSK Prospects

Renegade HC 

Renegade HC have quietly put together a solid season so far, sitting in a respectable position with a 1.82 points average. They might not be grabbing all the headlines, but they’ve been consistent enough to stay firmly in the mix, and that’s often what matters most at this stage of the season. Their recent form of 6-4-0 shows a team that can win games, even if they haven’t quite found that extra gear to go on a bigger run.

Looking at their numbers, they’re a fairly balanced side. Averaging just under three goals per game while conceding slightly less suggests they’re usually competitive in most matchups. They’re not blowing teams out, but they’re also not getting blown out, which keeps them in games and gives them chances to pick up points regularly.

One area that stands out is their power play, sitting at an impressive 36.36%. That’s a real weapon and something they can lean on, especially in tighter games where special teams can make the difference. Combined with a strong penalty kill at 87.5%, it shows that their special teams are doing a lot of the heavy lifting.

Overall, Renegade HC feel like a team that’s just missing that final push. If they can tighten things up defensively and turn a few of those closer games into wins, they have a good chance of climbing higher and becoming a more serious threat as the playoffs are soon here.

Important games coming up: NOSTREETSPORTS
 

Three Stars 

Three Stars came into the season with higher expectations than what they’ve shown so far, and sitting in 11th place, at this stage, is not where they would have hoped to be. With 25 points so far, they’ve struggled to find consistency, and their 4-4-2 record in the last ten games sums that up pretty well. It’s been a season of ups and downs, without any real momentum to push them forward.

Offensively, they’ve been decent, averaging just over three goals per game, but a bright spot on their roster has been @Lxnards, the veteran defenseman, who has been solid all-around, and even putting up 30 points this season so far.

Special teams haven’t done them many favours either. A 10% power play leaves a lot to be desired, and while their penalty kill is serviceable, it hasn’t been enough to offset their struggles at even strength. Add in a sub-50 faceoff percentage, and they’ve often found themselves chasing games instead of controlling them.

The good news is that there’s still time. With 12 games left, their playoff hopes aren’t gone, but the margin for error is basically gone now. They’ll need to find consistency quickly, tighten things up defensively, and start turning close games into wins if they want to climb back into the playoff picture.

Important games coming up: eHockey Switzerland

Teemu @Teemuyy Polttila has done it again. On March 12th, Teemuyy claimed the ECL '26: Winter - 1v1 title — making him a back-to-back 1v1 champion after his ECL '25: Spring victory. It's been a dominant run at the top of the 1v1 scene, and this Winter edition only cemented his status further.
 

The Road to the Final

The TOP 16 playoffs were far from straightforward. Both top seeds were eliminated in the quarterfinals — #1 @temppanen fell to #8 @JesseL2002 in a notable upset, and #2 @fire_cats88 was taken out by #7 @xEasy33. That left the bottom half of the bracket wide open.

Teemuyy, who had won Group 4 in the Regular Season and then topped Group 1 in the TOP 16 group stage to earn the #3 seed, had to grind his way through the bracket. In the quarterfinals, he dropped Game 1 to @Hardeni- - (6–5) before taking control with three straight wins (10–5, 10–4, 6–2) to advance. The semis were no easier — while he swept JesseL2002, it took winning Game 1 in overtime (4–3) and closing it out with a dramatic 9–8 win in Game 2. Pikkarii's path to the final looked considerably smoother by comparison, sweeping xEasy33 with more convincing wins of 4–2 and 10–4.

The Grand Final: Teemuyy vs. Pikkarii

The finals were a best-of-three series against Väinö @Pikkarii Pikkarainen, who had been one of the most consistent performers throughout the season. Pikkarii came out firing in Game 1, taking a decisive 5–1 victory and putting Teemuyy on the back foot early. But Teemuyy responded in exactly the same fashion — a 5–1 win of his own to level the series heading into a deciding Game 3.

Game 3 was a back-and-forth battle right to the end. Teemuyy ultimately pulled away late to win 8–6, taking the series 2–1 and claiming his second consecutive 1v1 title.

Division Highlights

The TOP 16 group stage saw Teemuyy lead the tournament in goals for (42 GF), while temppanen boasted the stingiest defense (14 GA). fire_cats88 finished with the best goal differential at +24 — though despite the impressive regular season numbers, the top seeds couldn't convert in the playoffs.

Teemuyy's road to Champion:

Regular Season: 1st in Group 4
TOP 16 Group Stage: 1st in Group 1
Quarterfinals (BO5): 3–1 vs Hardeni-: 5–6, 10–5, 10–4, 6–2
Semifinals (BO3): 2–0 vs JesseL2002: 4–3 OT, 9–8
Finals (BO3): 2–1 vs Pikkarii: 1–5, 5–1, 8–6

Congratulations to Teemu on back-to-back 1v1 championships, and thank you to everyone who competed in the ECL '26: Winter season. See you in the Spring season - registrations launching soon!

SportsGamers,

We would like to remind every team that the transfer window for all ECL '26: Spring divisions expires tomorrow Thursday, April 23rd at 23:59:59 CEST. 

Quote

14. 1 Transfer Deadline
​The deadline for transfers across all divisions is set to the 23rd of April 2026 at 23:59 CEST.
A player cannot leave a team after the deadline has passed in one division, and then join a team in
another division where the deadline has not. No team can make transfers in either direction once they
have completed their regular season. This also applies to adding completely new players.

Please remember to make sure your trades are in line with the rulebook before making them, and check with support if you aren't sure. Remember, only one transfer per player is allowed per season - unless the player has played 0 games (overall, for any team) the entire season, which is covered in rule 14.6.

If you're a player still looking for a team or a team still looking to add to your roster, please head to the  Free Agents  section or the  Clubs Looking For Players  section on our forum.

Please post any last-minute transfers in the comments section below so everyone can enjoy them. 

With the first half of the Elite Division covered, it’s time to dive into the other eight teams that make up the highest tier of the ECL. The Spring season is already delivering surprises, with early results showing that even established powerhouses aren’t untouchable. Here’s a closer look at the remaining squads, their offseason moves (or lack thereof), current form, and bold predictions for how their campaigns will unfold.

Parasite
The Finnish powerhouse returns once again with expectations firmly set at the very top. With much of their former core still intact, this is a team that doesn’t need rebuilding or retooling; they simply reload. Star forwards like @Beniitttocontinue to drive one of the most dangerous offenses in the Elite division, while a strong defensive unit and reliable goaltending from @FINSeRe provide the balance needed to win consistently.

Their start to the season has only reinforced that status. Dominant performances against Oxdog Esports and Umpikuja showed just how clinical they can be, even if a couple of tighter results, such as their split with MSK esports, served as a reminder that no team is completely untouchable in Elite. Still, what separates Parasite is their ability to win in different ways. Whether it’s controlling games outright or grinding through closer matchups, they rarely look out of place.

There’s a level of confidence and familiarity within this group that few others can match. They’ve been here before, they know what it takes, and they’ve already shown early on that they’re operating at a high level. Over the course of a long season, that consistency tends to separate contenders from challengers.

Prediction: They cruise to the finals and ultimately lift the trophy, once again setting the standard for everyone else to chase.

MSK Esports
After finishing 8th last season under the Robe name, they've now managed to snag a few new signings and revamped their entire offense, signing @Sokkelo__, @dippen04 & @Hydeee_24 and rebranded as MSK Esports, they come into the new campaign looking far more dangerous than last season. Early results have turned heads, including a regulation win over Tunnel Vision and a hard-fought split against Parasite, two results that immediately elevate their credibility within the division.

This is a team that has often hovered around the middle of the standings, capable of competing but not always able to sustain momentum. What’s different so far is the level of composure they’ve shown against stronger opposition. They’re not just hanging around in games; they’re actively dictating stretches and finding ways to come away with points.

There’s a growing sense that MSK might be turning a corner. The pieces seem to be fitting together more effectively, and the early confidence could go a long way in shaping their season. However, the true test will come over time, maintaining that level across a full schedule is where many teams tend to slip.

If they can keep building on these early performances, they won’t just be a mid-table side; they’ll be a legitimate playoff threat that others won’t want to face.

Prediction: A strong playoff push, likely landing in the 6–7 range and making things interesting in the quarterfinals before eventually falling short.

vNexs 
The Swedish side returns with a familiar identity built on speed, skill, and quick transitions. Known for their ability to turn defense into offense in an instant, vNexs remains one of the more dynamic teams in the division. Their previous campaign included a hard-fought playoff run, highlighted by a few dramatic seven-game series win against the likes of Havu and Incoach that showcased both resilience and composure under pressure. 

Now they've made a few changes after their final appearance, which have turned some heads, departing with winger @Alpha borje, and center @dippen04.

Early indications suggest they haven’t lost their edge. Competitive games against top-tier opponents, including a tight matchup with Parasite, show they’re still very much in the mix. Their style of play can be difficult to contain when it’s clicking, especially against teams that struggle to match their pace.

That said, the competition around them remains fierce. With multiple Swedish teams in the division and a crowded playoff race expected, every point will matter. vNexs will need to stay sharp and consistent to avoid getting caught in the middle of that pack.

They’ve proven they belong at this level, but turning strong performances into deep playoff success is the next hurdle.

Prediction: A comfortable playoff qualification, followed by a tightly contested quarterfinal exit.

SSK Esports
SSK Esports enters the season looking to solidify their place as regulars in the Elite Division after several campaigns of hovering around the qualifier's spot. They’ve shown flashes of being a well-structured and difficult team to play against, but turning those moments into sustained success has been the challenge.

This is a team that thrives on discipline and structure, often keeping games close and forcing opponents to earn every opportunity. That approach can be effective, especially over a long season, but it also leaves little margin for error when facing the division’s top teams, which has been the case so far this season, splitting all their matchups so far.

Matchups against fellow Swedish sides like vNexs, Afterlife, and Unwanted could play a major role in shaping their season. Those games not only carry extra weight but could ultimately determine whether SSK finds themselves in the playoff picture or just outside of it. They've tried to combat this by bringing in @Sebastian Axelsson and @Smayk99, we'll see how it works out.

There’s a sense that they’re close to the middle of the pack, but in a league as competitive as Elite, being close doesn’t always translate to results.

Prediction: They hover around the playoff line but ultimately fall just short, finishing in the 11–14 range and heading toward the qualifiers.

Afterlife 
Afterlife returns as part of the strong Swedish presence in the division, continuing to build on a foundation that has kept them competitive in recent seasons. They’ve consistently shown they can hang with most teams offensively, but defensively, they've been a step behind.

Their approach early in the season appears measured and controlled, focusing on staying organized and avoiding costly mistakes. That style can keep them in games, especially against stronger opponents, but it also puts pressure on them to capitalize on limited chances. To address this issue they signed @Alpha borje from vNexs, which shows their seriousness about making the playoffs. From last season's 9th place, they believe the winger could be the nail in the coffin, which is the playoff spot.

Like many teams in their range, their season could be defined by how they perform in key matchups against direct competitors. With several evenly matched teams fighting for similar positions, consistency will be everything, so far they've shown their offense can match and that in tight games, they have the poise to be clinical.

Afterlife has the experience and structure to remain competitive, but whether that translates into enough points to climb the standings remains to be seen. With shaky defense, it's tough to be consistent.

Prediction: A mid-table finish, with solid performances throughout the season but ultimately falling short of a playoff spot.

Vizio

Vizio heads into the new season facing a familiar challenge: consistency. Past Elite runs have shown flashes of potential, but early results suggest the gap to top teams, highlighted by losses to sides like Goons still remains.

The roster is largely unchanged, with only @stu_rulez joining. That continuity can help with stability and chemistry, but it also risks carrying over the same issues if they aren’t addressed. At this level, even small weaknesses tend to get exposed quickly.

So far, Vizio has shown moments of competitiveness, but they’ve struggled to sustain it across full matches. Those dips in performance are often the difference against stronger opponents.

Their season will likely depend on staying competitive in tougher matchups and securing points against teams around them in the standings. The effort is there, but turning it into consistent results remains the key challenge.

Prediction: A difficult season near the bottom of the table, with a likely trip to the relegation or qualifier series.

Ismon Valinta

Ismon Valinta enters the Elite Division once again with the goal of proving they can be more than just a middle-to-lower table side. Since earning promotion, their performances have largely settled into an “average” range, competitive enough to stay in the division, but not quite convincing enough to push higher up the standings. Heading into this season, that same trajectory feels like the most likely outcome unless something clicks in a bigger way.

There have been some adjustments, particularly on the defensive side. The addition of @vlxddyy to play alongside @Motzzyy signals an attempt to stabilize and perhaps elevate their play at the back. It’s a move that could bring a different dynamic compared to last season, where they ultimately finished 12th, but early signs don’t necessarily point toward a dramatic leap forward. Instead, it feels more like a step toward refining what they already have rather than completely reshaping their identity.

The key for them is progression. If they can take lessons from last season, tightening up their overall play and becoming more comfortable in high-pressure situations, they have the potential to surprise teams that may overlook them. While expectations remain modest, there’s still room for growth, and how well they handle that learning curve will ultimately define their season.

Prediction: A lower-table finish, with a few hard-earned wins but ultimately a battle to avoid dropping out of Elite.

Umpikuja

Umpikuja’s season has started on the wrong foot, and the early results have quickly put them under pressure. Losses to Unwanted and a heavy defeat against Parasite suggest they’re struggling to match the pace and consistency required at this level.

The frustrating part is that the potential is clearly there. On paper, this is a team capable of competing, but they haven’t been able to sustain their level across full matches, especially against stronger opponents. Small mistakes and lapses in coordination have been enough to swing games away from them.

The longer this slow start continues, the tougher the recovery becomes. In a tight division, falling behind early can create a gap that’s hard to close, both in points and confidence.

There’s still time to turn things around, but it needs to happen soon. Finding stability and picking up results against teams around them will be key because the margin for error is already getting smaller. Last season's quarterfinal spot is a long way away, now is the time to turn the ship around.

Prediction: A season spent in the bottom half, with some improvement over time, but ultimately a tough fight to avoid the qualifier spots.

Spring has arrived, and with it comes the return of the ECL Elite Division for another competitive season. Teams are stepping into a fresh campaign with new rosters, new dynamics, and plenty to prove as the action has already started this week. While all 16 teams are gearing up for the challenge ahead, this first article will focus on eight of them.

With that, let’s dive into the Elite Division preview.

*This article is written as of April 10th

Incoach

It’s been a steady uphill climb for Incoach since their FCL championship run, with the team struggling to recapture that same level of dominance in the seasons that followed. Their last ECL campaign ended in disappointment, falling in the quarterfinals to the Swedes vNexs in a gripping seven-game series that could have gone either way. Despite flashes of their potential, they ultimately came up short when it mattered most, something that has clearly fueled their motivation heading into this season.

Recognizing the need for change, Incoach made some notable moves during the offseason. Parting ways with @Sokkelo__ marked the end of one chapter, while the hiatus of @WeDuX_ left another gap to fill. In response, the team brought in @Mozjayh and @Puantsotwo additions that not only strengthen the roster on paper but also bring valuable experience and a proven winning mentality within the ECL environment. These signings suggest a clear intent: this team isn’t looking to rebuild, they’re looking to contend.

At the heart of it all is the coach, captain, and center @zMikkeez, who has been carefully shaping this roster over time. The core has had time to develop chemistry, and with the latest additions, the pieces finally seem to be falling into place. There’s a sense that this could be the moment where everything clicks. With a strong preseason behind them and a balanced lineup capable of competing with anyone, the expectations are rising.

Now, it comes down to execution. The tools are there, the structure is in place, and the belief is growing. If @zMikkeez can guide this group the way he’s envisioned, Incoach has every opportunity to turn potential into results, and perhaps make a long-awaited return to the finals.

Prediction: Tough loss in the semis to a clearly better Parasite team

F0cus

Fresh off their promotion from the Pro division, F0cus has opted for continuity rather than overhaul. The core that earned them a step up remains intact, with only a few backup additions brought in to round out the roster. There’s a strong sense within the team that the same chemistry, structure, and drive that powered their promotion can carry over into the Elite level, a belief that early results seem to support.

They’ve hit the ground running to start the season, posting an impressive 3-0-0-1 record and showing that they’re not here just to participate. Instead, F0cus looks like a team eager to prove they belong among the best. If they can maintain this level of performance, a playoff spot is well within reach, though the intensity and quality of Elite postseason hockey will be a completely different challenge. While several players on the roster have prior experience at this level, a handful of newcomers are still getting their first real taste of what Elite competition demands.

Those newcomers, however, haven’t looked out of place so far. @tuskanparahdusta and @rakkauspakkaus- have both made strong early impressions, with the former leading the team in scoring with 8 points (3 goals, 5 assists). He’s not just contributing, he’s setting the pace, even alongside more experienced forwards like @jm98II and @Anhel_Kuru. That trio has quickly developed into a dangerous offensive unit capable of producing against high-level opposition. We spoke with @tuskanparahdustaahead of the season: "Well, obviously I'm excited, the idea is to always improve my game, and to play against the best so hopefully i'll learn something useful this season."

Despite the strong start and offensive upside, questions remain, particularly on the defensive side of the puck. Consistency in their own end will likely determine just how far this team can go. Players like @Anhel_Kuru bring a calming presence and strong hockey IQ, often seeming to be in the right place at the right time, helping stabilize the team and elevate those around him. But over the course of a long season, the collective defensive effort will need to match the firepower up front.

All things considered, F0cus is shaping up to be one of the more intriguing teams to watch. They’ve already shown they can compete, but whether they can sustain it, adapt, and grow will define just how successful their first season back in the Elite Division truly becomes.

Prediction: Will miss out on the playoffs by a thin margin

Unwanted

Another team fighting their way into the Elite Division through the qualifiers, adding to an already strong Swedish presence alongside vNexs, SSK, and Afterlife. This predominantly Swedish lineup returns to the top level after a lengthy absence that stirred plenty of discussion within the community. Time away from competition can either slow a team down or sharpen their hunger, and early signs suggest it’s been the latter.

Unwanted wasted no time making an impression, kicking off their campaign with authority by taking 5 out of a possible 6 points from a seasoned Umpikuja side that has struggled to find its footing so far. It’s the kind of statement start that immediately puts the rest of the division on notice. Leading the charge has been @Suth98_, who has come out flying with 9 points (3 goals, 6 assists) in just two games. If there were any doubts about rust from time away, he’s quickly put them to rest.

Offensively, this team has never really been a concern. With players like @Henka0009 and @Snus97_, there’s a proven track record of production at the Elite level. They have the skill, creativity, and finishing ability to challenge any defense in the league, and when they get going, they’re difficult to contain. That firepower alone makes them a dangerous opponent on any given night.

The real question, as it has been in the past, lies on the defensive side. Consistency at the back will ultimately determine whether Unwanted can sustain their strong start or fall into familiar patterns. A lot of that responsibility now falls on the Elite rookie @Fin_S1su, who steps in as the last line of defense against some of the league’s most dangerous offenses. It’s a big role, especially at this level, and how he handles that pressure could define the team’s ceiling.

There’s no doubt the talent is there. The start has been promising. Now it’s about balance and consistency. If Unwanted can tighten things up defensively to match their offensive strength, they have every chance to turn heads and establish themselves as a serious contender this season.
Prediction: Their defense won't hold, and they'll play in the qualifiers come June.

Tiki Talk

A team that hardly needs any buildup, Tiki Talk returns to the Elite Division with the same identity they’ve carried for seasons, quietly grinding, always present, and never easy to deal with. No matter the circumstances, they find a way to stick around. Once again, they enter a new campaign surrounded by speculation, roster talk, and the usual unpredictability that seems to follow them every offseason. At the center of it all is @itspardytime, continuing to lead the team as he has since the very beginning, setting the tone for yet another run in the ECL.

Last season was, in many ways, a steady one. Tiki Talk managed to secure its place in Elite without ever truly threatening the top teams or falling into real danger. Finishing 9 points behind the final playoff spot showed there’s still a gap to close, but at the same time, a 7-point cushion above the qualifiers proved they were comfortably competitive. It’s that middle-ground consistency that has surprised a lot of teams, but also what they’ll be looking to improve on.

Roster-wise, there are still some unanswered questions. The departure of @Pensasmies left a noticeable hole on the blue line, and finding the right partner alongside @Saviinainen remains a key issue heading into the season. Whether they’ve already found that solution internally or are still experimenting will become clear early on, but it’s an area that could heavily impact their overall stability.

Offensively, the team has long leaned on the creativity and playmaking of its captain. While that has worked to an extent, taking the next step will require a more balanced attack. Getting consistent contributions from the rest of the lineup, spreading the responsibility, and creating more options in the offensive zone will be crucial if they want to push closer to playoff contention.

As always, defense remains the biggest question mark. It’s been a recurring theme for Tiki Talk, and this season it feels even more uncertain. If they can find structure and reliability at the back to complement their established style of play, they could find themselves with a few more points. But if those issues persist, they may find themselves stuck in that same middle ground yet again, or worse.

Prediction: They'll be fighting for their Elite spot; qualifiers are looming for the veteran team.

Tunnel Vision

Prediction: Will see a finals appearance but fall short by the tiniest margin.

Oxdog Esports

Oxdog Esports, xBots, Blackbirds eSports, whatever the name may be, the story remains the same: a team that has had to fight for everything they’ve earned. After grinding their way back through the Pro division, they’ve secured another shot at the Elite level. That experience alone should serve them well, especially considering how difficult their last stint in Elite proved to be, where defensive struggles often held them back against stronger competition.

This time around, they’ve made a conscious effort to address those weaknesses. The departure of @Hassegamer_480 marks a notable change, with @Hansulinho stepping in at right winger, after standing between the pipes for many years. Bringing in a forward without that level of pedigree could be a crucial move, however, as ha forward he has already offered more stability and consistency in high-pressure situations than his predecessor. On top of that, the return of @patee___ adds familiarity to the defensive core, a player who already understands the team’s structure and should slot back in without much adjustment.

There’s a clear intention behind these moves: this team isn’t just looking to survive, they’re trying to build something more stable at this level. Still, the biggest question remains whether these changes are enough. Competing in Elite requires consistency night in and night out, and small weaknesses tend to get exposed quickly.

Ultimately, their season will come down to execution. The pieces are there, and the lessons from their previous run should still be fresh. Now it’s about proving they can adapt, tighten up defensively, and turn those adjustments into results. Whether they can establish themselves this time or find themselves in another battle to stay up will be one of the more interesting storylines to follow as the season unfolds.

Prediction: Consistency will be an issue, and they will fight for a no-man's land spot.

Tohtorit

Defending champions, it’s a title that carries weight, and with it comes a whole new level of expectation. For Tohtorit, anything short of another deep playoff run will likely be seen as a step back after reaching the top last season. While parts of that championship core remain, this is not the exact same team that lifted the trophy, and that makes this campaign all the more intriguing.

The biggest changes come in the form of key departures. Losing players like @Patzlaf and @FlyerKungen leaves noticeable gaps, especially considering how important they were to last season’s success. Their move to the Pro division raises some eyebrows, but regardless of the reasoning, it forces Tohtorit to adapt. In response, they’ve brought in @Lxndstrom from relegated EXEN, a player expected to help offset some of that lost production and bring added offensive presence from the back end.

Even with those changes, the expectations haven’t gone anywhere. If anything, they’ve only intensified. However, the competition at the top has grown stronger, and teams like Parasite and Tunnel Vision have quickly positioned themselves as major threats. Early results haven’t helped Tohtorit’s case either, with a slow start that included a loss and limited offensive output. It’s a reminder that staying at the top is often harder than getting there in the first place.

If they want to avoid slipping further, rediscovering last season’s rhythm will be key, and quickly. Building momentum early, tightening up their play, and finding consistent scoring will all be crucial in keeping pace with the top contenders. At the same time, with several new teams stepping up from the Pro division, there may be opportunities to collect important points if they can take care of business in those matchups.

Tohtorit still has the foundation of a top team, but the margin for error is smaller now. How they respond to early setbacks and adjust to their new lineup will ultimately determine whether they remain a dominant force or find themselves chasing the standard they set not long ago.

Prediction: Tough semifinal loss after cruising through the quarterfinals.

Goons

Coming off a strong season, Goons have opted to keep things exactly as they are, sticking with the same roster that brought them success. Early results this season have been solid on paper; wins against a struggling Vizio side and newly promoted Oxdog Esports have helped them secure 8 out of a possible 12 points. Still, those results haven’t fully answered the bigger question: are they truly a top-four team again, or has the competition around them taken a step ahead?

Last season, much of their rise was fueled by the arrival of the Almost Famous trio: @Ikavalko, @xrikardo55, and @kkostiiii. Their impact was immediate and undeniable, transforming Goons into a legitimate playoff team. A fourth-place regular season finish followed, along with a convincing playoff series win against Umpikuja to reach the semifinals. There, they pushed eventual champions Tohtorit further than many expected, proving they weren’t just a one-season surprise. It’s fair to say that the trio played a massive role in elevating the team to that level.

Now, with no roster changes, the expectations remain clear: anything less than playoffs would be a disappointment. Continuity can be a strength, especially for a team that already knows it can compete, but it also means there are no new pieces to push them further if others improve around them.

Goons’ identity hasn’t changed; they’re still a highly offensive team capable of going toe-to-toe with anyone on their day. That playstyle makes them dangerous, particularly in a playoff setting where momentum can shift quickly and unpredictably. The real question is whether that alone is enough. If they can match their offensive firepower with consistency and composure, they’ll once again be a tough out. If not, they risk being overtaken by teams that have evolved while they’ve stood still.

Prediction: Playoffs, but that will be it for last year's semi-finalists.

There’s something about a new ECL season that just hits differently, a new chance to make a name for yourself; it is indeed the best time of the season. The Pro division is back, and once again, it’s packed with storylines and familiar teams that we’ve seen before, and others are just starting their journey together.

Every team comes in with something to prove. For some, it’s about finally taking that next step towards the Elite division. For others, it’s redemption after falling short. And then there are those just trying to show they belong at this level.

In this article, we’re tak a closer look at a few teams ahead of the season, some key roster changes, and the early signs from preseason to get a feel for how things might play out. As always, there will be surprises. The only question is: who’s ready to take their moment? And as always, remember that these are only one person's opinions.
 

Relegation

Fallen Rangers 

There’s no easy way to put it, this looks like it could be a long, difficult season for Fallen Rangers. The Czech/Slovak side comes into the Spring season without much momentum, and on paper, they’re up against teams that simply look more polished, more experienced, and more consistent across the board.

That said, the one thing working in their favor might be unpredictability. Teams at this level tend to prepare for structured, familiar playstyles, and Fallen Rangers could catch a few opponents off guard if they lean into their own identity and play without hesitation. Early in the season, especially, that kind of wildcard factor can steal points where you wouldn’t expect it.

Still, over the course of a full season, it’s hard to rely on surprise alone. Consistency, discipline, and depth usually decide who stays up, and right now, those are big question marks. Unless something clicks quickly or they find a way to grind out results, the fight to avoid relegation could turn into an uphill battle.

They don’t need to be perfect, but they will need to find something solid to build on, and fast, if they want to avoid a return to the Lite division.

Player To Watch: @Kiso69

HC Malvi

Same story for the Finns, it's going to be tough to beat veterans in Pro and get those crucial points needed to stay alive, but never underestimate a team that has no expectations. If they want to stay in the Pro division, it will require resilience and a lot of luck; we'll see where that gets them.

There’s a certain freedom that comes with being overlooked. With no real pressure on their shoulders, the Finns can play their own game and potentially catch more established teams off guard, especially early in the season. That said, experience usually wins out in the long run, and the Pro division is unforgiving when it comes to small mistakes.

Player To Watch: @gettera4

REMINDER: We are looking for writers. If you're interested - read more here.

SportsGamers,

The newest update to the ECL '26: Spring rulebook is now live and can be accessed through the league pages. Generally speaking, the rulebook is a revised and improved version of the rulebook used in ECL '26: Winter. Find the new rulebook here.

Here's a snapshot of some of the major adjustments / additions compared to ECL ‘26: Winter: 

• 11.7.: Banned Player Abilities, Builds & Positional Builds section has been significantly updated - All Abilities are now banned and not to be used.
• League Administration will be keeping a close eye on teams and players trying to sign up for a division below their perceived skill level. Rules around this have been more clearly defined as a means of clearer transparency. Read more in sections 5.5, 5.6 and 5.7.
• 5.9 ECL Pro Playoffs structure has been updated from round 2 onward to follow the same logic as the other divisions – the group placement being the first tie-breaker before PPG.
• Some final details, as a closer approximation of the prize pool, will be updated to the rules a few weeks after the start of the season.

We ask every team and it's members to familiarize themselves with the rulebook before taking the ice for the ECL '26: Winter season. Please refer to the rulebook in case of any issues that may arise throughout the season. If you have any questions, please get in touch with support.

The ECL '26: Spring season is right around the corner, but let's have a final look at our Winter season with our individual player awards of the Elite division! The winners were voted by captains and staff members.
 

Player of The Season
The Player of The Season award is awarded to a player who has excelled above the competition in their own position.

Winner: @Patzlaf

Defender of The Season
The Defender of The Season award is awarded to a player who has excelled above the competition in their defenseman position.

Winner: @FlyerKungen

Goalie of The Season
The Goalie of The Season award is awarded to a player who has excelled above the competition in their goaltender position.

Winner: @Stammer70

Rookie of The Season
The Rookie Of The Season award is awarded to a player in their rookie ECL Pro season, who has excelled above the competition regardless of position.

Winner: @dippen04

Two-Way Forward of The Season
The Two-Way Forward of the season is awarded to a forward who best excels in the defensive aspects of the game.

Winner: @Patzlaf

Transfer of The Season

The Transfer of the Season award is given to a player who after a mid-season transfer is considered to have been the most impactful player for their new team.

Winner: @Jemmuuu

Comeback Player of The Season

The Comeback Player of the Season award is given to a player who after one or more seasons away from ECL Elite competition makes the most impactful comeback to the highest level.

Winner: @Patzlaf

Welcome to ECL Essentials!

The ECL is constantly evolving, and each season brings new rosters, returning veterans, and shifting team dynamics. To help us seed divisions as accurately as possible, we’re opening applications for Community Scouts.

What Is a Community Scout?

A Community Scout is a knowledgeable, experienced member of the NHL community who helps us assess the relative strength of teams within a division. Scouts are not judges, officials, or league staff — instead, they provide valuable insight to support our internal seeding process. It's worth noting that the Community Scout does not need to know all divisions - even being knowledgeable within just one division is helpful.

This allows us to combine:

• administrative data
• past season results
• roster changes
• and community expertise

…to create the most competitive, balanced, and enjoyable ECL experience possible.

Who Are We Looking For?

We’re inviting players, captains, staff, content creators — or any long-time followers of the scene — who feel they have a solid understanding of:

• the relative skill levels of teams in a division
• roster strengths and weaknesses
• past performances and trends
• the “real” level of teams beyond just their results

You do not need to be a current or former Elite/Pro player. What matters most is knowledge, fairness, and familiarity with the community and the level of play that you are providing your feedback on.

What Will Community Scouts Do?

Ahead of the group draw, Community Scouts will be asked to:

• Review the list of teams in a specific division
• Share their opinion on how strong each team is
• Provide optional short comments explaining their reasoning

Your input will be used as one of several data points in our seeding process. The goal is simple:
Better information → Better groups → Better games.

How Much Time Does It Take?

Very little — usually just a few minutes per division you follow, however, we will need you to be able to submit the feedback within a few hours of getting the list, as we wish to get the groups and schedules communicated as early as possible. Sign-ups close on Thursday night, and we expect might reach out very soon after that.

This is a completely voluntary, community-driven role.

How to Apply

If you’re interested in contributing to the competitive integrity of the ECL and helping shape the upcoming season, fill out the short form below:

👉 Apply here: https://forms.gle/DDWq8wiKo478zSER6

Remember to sign up your team by the end of the day, Thursday, April 2nd, 20026, to secure your spot in the ECL '26: Spring season!

The new ECL '26: Spring season is approaching, and registrations are open for teams and players across Europe for one final stretch. The ECL is the leading European competition played in the EA SPORTS™ NHL franchise, featuring structured divisions for all skill levels.

Since 2015, the ECL has been the definitive stage for competitive eHockey in Europe. Now entering its 22nd season, the league continues to evolve — and ECL '26: Spring introduces a significant gameplay shift with all X-Factor and Superstar abilities banned, creating the most skill-pure environment the ECL has ever seen.

The European Championship League (ECL) is Europe’s premier competitive league for organized 6v6 eHockey, played in the EA SPORTS™ NHL franchise.

Featuring multiple divisions from Elite to Neo, as well as a 1v1 competition, the ECL offers players of all skill levels a structured and competitive environment. Every skater and goaltender is fully human-controlled, with all games played in EASHL mode on PlayStation and Xbox.

Established in 2015, the ECL now enters its 22nd season with a thriving community of players. The league also features ECL 1v1, introduced in the ECL ’23 Winter season, where Europe’s best solo players compete for the championship.
 

Basic information/requirements of ECL:

• Regional restrictions: ECL is a European tournament format; however, we do not necessarily exclude players located in North America or Asia. A European server will always be used. We reserve the right to exclude teams or players in case of severe connection issues.
   
• Individual requirements: Each player needs to have an account at SportsGamer.GG and create their personal player card.
   
• ECL licenses: Teams in ECL Elite & ECL Pro, ECL Lite, and ECL Core will require their respective ECL ‘26: Spring team licenses in order to play. In addition, every player in the above-mentioned divisions needs to have a valid ECL ‘26: Player License or ECL ‘26: Spring Player License before taking the ice. The Player License is also required in the Qualifiers. Players in ECL Neo require only an ECL '26: Spring Neo Player License. You will find more information about the licenses below in this article.
  
  Teams may also register up to three backup players, who can be used as substitutes during the season. Each backup may appear in a maximum of 10 games combined across both the Winter and Spring seasons, including qualifiers, regular season, and playoffs. All backups must be listed on the team’s official roster before participating in any game.

The sign-ups close on the below-mentioned dates:

• ECL Pro Qualifier: 23.3.2026
• ECL Elite: 23.3.2026
• ECL Pro: 23.3.2026
• ECL Lite: 2.4.2026 ⚠️
• ECL Core: 2.4.2026 ⚠️
• ECL Neo: 2.4.2026 ⚠️

* Signups will close at 23:59 CET on the day mentioned unless otherwise specified.

⚠️ Please note: Failing to register for a higher-level division in time does NOT entitle registration and participation in a lower division for a team that is unfit to play at a lower level.
 

This section briefly describes the key dates for the ECL '26: Spring season. For a more detailed breakdown, see the ECL '26: Spring - Information & Key Dates

Regular Season duration: 7.4 - 8.5.2026

eHockey World Cup Break: 12.-24.5.2026 (read about the eHockey World Cup)

Playoffs duration: 25.5 - 28.6.2026^*

* The exact details for the playoffs and division finals will be communicated once the final number of teams per division is known.

Free Agents & Teams Looking for Players

Don't have a team yet? Team looking for additions to your roster?

• If you are a free agent looking to be picked up, please head over here.
• If you are representing a team looking for players, please head over here.

Need more help? Check out the "How to Find a Team or Players for Your Team" article!

Player and Team Licenses

If you're a team looking to use your previous winnings toward a license, please contact support for assistance.

ECL '26: SPRING LICENSES ARE AVAILABLE - BROWSE BY USING THIS LINK

The ECL Neo division does not require a team license; however, ECL Neo players are required to have an active Player license at a cost of 10 EUR per season.

Please refer to this ECL Ranking in order to understand which teams are eligible to sign up for each division.
 

The ECL prize pool will be determined directly by community participation.

Each season, a share of the collected license-fee income is distributed back to players as prize money across all divisions.

How it works

For the ECL ’26: Spring season, at least 35% of net license-fee income (after VAT and transaction fees) will be paid out as prize money.

The initial prize pool estimate will be published a bit after the start of the season, based on confirmed team and player purchases at that time. If additional licenses are purchased during the season, the final prize pool will be adjusted accordingly and disclosed once all registrations are complete.

Previously purchased full-year license fees are evenly divided between the Winter and Spring seasons.

Why this structure?

Prize pool shares reflect each division’s competitive level and progression within the ECL structure — ensuring that advancement through the divisions is both meaningful and rewarding.

The distribution between divisions remains consistent with previous ECL seasons.

For more specific information about the division-specific prize pool distribution, please see this forum post.
 

Rule Changes

The updated ECL '26: Spring rules will be available soon. For now, you can refer to the ECL '26: Winter Official Rules, however, keep in mind especially the major adjustments mentioned below. All team captains are expected to familiarize themselves with the rulebook before the season begins.

Here's a snapshot of some of the major adjustments/additions compared to ECL ‘26: Winter:

• 11.7.: Banned Player Abilities, Builds & Positional Builds section has been significantly updated - All Abilities are now banned and not to be used.
• Some final details, as a closer approximation of the prize pool, will be updated to the rules closer to the start of the season.
• League Administration will be keeping a close eye on teams and players trying to sign up for a division below their perceived skill level, and rules around this will be more clearly defined as a means of clearer transparency

Banned Player Abilities, Builds & Positional Builds
You can read about and discuss player abilities and bans here.

Are there some rule-related changes we’ve missed?

Now is your chance to discuss and suggest what type of changes you would like to see in the rulebook.
 

PLEASE NOTE: ECL '26: SPRING 1v1 SIGNUPS WILL LAUNCH LATER THIS YEAR.

ECL '26: Spring is shaping up to be one of the most wide-open seasons in recent memory — new rules, refreshed rosters, and a fresh set of rankings. Whether you're a returning champion or signing up for the very first time, this is your shot. 

🔗 Sign up now and be part of the action!

It's time to kick off the ECL '26: Spring - Elite & Pro Qualifiers, and in this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about the structure and schedules for the qualifiers of these two highest levels of play in the European Championship League.
 

The ECL Elite Qualifier consists of five (5) teams competing for two (2) open ECL Elite spots. The five teams meet in a group stage where every team plays each other twice - meaning each team will play 8 games. The TOP 4 teams go into a final round where #1 of the group stage plays #4 and #2 plays #3. The winners of these two matchups will win the promotion to Elite. The losers of the final round, along with the bottom team of the group stage will play in ECL Pro for the ECL '26: Spring season.
 

ECL Elite Qualifier Schedule

• Group Stage: 25-31.3.2026
• Finals (BO7): 1.-2.4.2026
  • #1 vs #4 & #2 vs #3

Click here to find the standings and schedule

Stage 1: Eight promotions
The ECL Pro Qualifier consists of twenty (20) teams competing for eleven (11) open ECL Pro spots. The group stage consists of four (4) groups of five (5) teams where every team plays each other twice - meaning each team will play eight (8) games. Teams have been snake-seeded into Stage 1 groups based on previous ECL ranking and LA seeding.

The top 2 of the group stage in each group is directly promoted to ECL Pro. 3rd and 4th place advance to Stage 2, while 5th place is eliminated to the Lite division.
 

Stage 2: Two promotions

The 3rd and 4th place teams from Stage 1 are reseeded into 2 new groups (Group A & B). 1st place in each group earns a direct Pro spot, 2nd place advances to Stage 3, while 3rd and 4th place are eliminated to the Lite division.
 

Stage 3: One promotion

The two (2) teams finishing 2nd in groups A and B of Stage 2 meet in one final best-of-5 matchup and the winner of the matchup will be promoted to ECL Pro.

• Group A #2 vs Group B #2

The loser of the final round will play in ECL Lite for the ECL '26: Spring season.

ECL Pro Qualifier Schedule

• Pro Qualifiers | Stage 1: 25-29.3.2026 (All teams)
• Pro Qualifiers | Stage 2: 30.3-1.4.2026  (8 teams)
• Pro Final Round (BO5) 2.4.2026  (2 teams)

Click here to find the standings and schedule
 

If teams are tied in points at the end of the group stage, the following tie-breakers* will be applied in the order that they are listed:

• Group placement
• Points per game (PPG)
• Wins (including OT-wins)
• Head-to-head record (points in mutual games)
• Goal difference (across all games played)
• Scored goals (across all games played)

*In the event of the tie-breakers being applied to teams from differing group sizes, ‘wins’ will be
represented as a percentage, head-to-head will naturally be disregarded, goal-difference will be made
into an ‘average per game’ amount, goals scored will (like goal difference before it) be converted into
an ‘average per game’, then finally, if all else fails to break the tie between two teams, a coin flip will
decide. 

Good luck to all teams!

 ⚠️ Important: The ECL Elite and Pro, as well as all Qualifier sign-ups, close Monday, March 23rd — this is your last chance to secure your spot in the Elite and Pro divisions, or the Pro Qualifier, and keep your ECL Pro ambitions alive.

Also, please note that Early Bird pricing ends today, Sunday, March 22nd, so be sure to take advantage of the offer while it lasts!

Note: Pro Qualifier Wildcard procedure has been updated

• Anyone can now apply to play in the ECL '26: Spring - Pro Qualifiers by checking the appropriate box during season registration.
• While the Wildcard restrictions have been lifted and there are no absolute requirements for applying, League Administration will still review Qualifier Applications (identified by PRO QUAL REQ on the registered teams page). As such, teams with more experience still have a better chance of making the cut and playing in the Qualifiers. All teams will be notified once the decisions have been made.
• To be properly evaluated for the Qualifier spot, please have your full roster in your SportsGamer ECL '26: Spring roster as early as possible.
• The number of available Wildcard spots may vary depending on the quality of the applications.

The sign-ups close on the dates mentioned below:

• ECL Pro Qualifier: 23.3.2026
• ECL Elite: 23.3.2026
• ECL Pro: 23.3.2026
• ECL Lite: 2.4.2026
• ECL Core: 2.4.2026
• ECL Neo: 2.4.2026

* Signups will close at 23:59 CET on the day mentioned unless otherwise specified.

⚠️ Please note: Failing to register for a higher-level division in time does NOT entitle registration and participation in a lower division for a team that is unfit to play at a lower level.

🕛 All sign-ups close at 23:59 CET on the listed dates unless otherwise specified.

👉 For full details and registration links, visit the official ECL ’26: Spring announcement.

New to the ECL or curious how the divisions work?
➡️ Learn more here: What is the ECL?

Early Bird Offer on Player and Team Licenses

Below you’ll find the pricing of the team and player licenses for ECL ‘26: Spring, available now. We will offer a slightly elevated Early Bird Price from March 16th, and finally regular pricing from March 23rd onward.

If you're a team looking to use your previous winnings toward a license, please contact support for assistance.
 

ECL '26: SPRING LICENSES ARE AVAILABLE - BROWSE BY USING THIS LINK

The ECL Neo division does not require a team license; however, ECL Neo players are required to have an active Player license at a cost of 10 EUR per season.

Please refer to this ECL Ranking in order to understand which teams are eligible to sign up for each division.

The ECL '26: Winter – 1v1 season comes to a head tonight as the final four players battle it out for the championship — and for a shot at history.

Kicking off at 19:00 CET on twitch.tv/ReactioMedia, the entire Top 4 — both semi-finals and the Grand Final — will be played in one broadcast, commentated by Cody @Tougie24 Tougas and Adam @esdor Ericson.

The matchups

In the first semi-final, #8 seed @JesseL2002 faces #3 seed @Teemuyy — the reigning ECL '25: Spring 1v1 champion who will be looking to add a second title to his name.

The second semi-final pits #7 seed @xEasy33 against the #4 seed @Pikkarii, a two-time ECL 1v1 champion (ECL '23: Spring, ECL '24: Spring) who needs no introduction. Can he reclaim the throne?

By the end of the night, we'll have our ECL '26: Winter - 1v1 Champion. Don't miss it.

📺 Live at 19:00 CET — twitch.tv/ReactioMedia

SportGamers,

Our community is growing with new members every year. From time to time, we are asked for tips on how to find a team or how to find players for your team.  In this post, we have put together a few links to our forum where you can either search for a team or sign up as a free agent. You'll also find some tips at the end that might be just what you need to connect with that new group of potential teammates. This post is mainly intended for the European audience that is interested in playing in the European Championship League.

Free Agents EU - PlayStation 5 & Xbox Series X|S

In this forum section, you can register as a free agent or search for new players for your team. 
You will find a "reply to topic" section under the last message on the page, where you can post your own free agent message. In this message, you can briefly tell us about yourself, what position you are looking to play, and how to best reach you.

Please note that a community account is required in order to post a message. Please also note that this forum section is only for free agent messages.
 

Free Agency Team feature

Last season we tested a feature to have the free agency status appear on the player card of free agents. We got some good feedback, so we'll continue running this. If you wish to participate, send a private message to @SG Free Agent Admin with your PSN ID/Gamertag. You will receive an invitation to the Free Agent team on SportsGamer and by accepting it, this will give you the status visible on your player card.

Please note that the invitation is usually not immediate and can take some time. Also, note that whatever positions and favorite position you have selected on your player card when accepting the invitation is what will appear in your free agency profile.

You can browse the Free Agent team here.

Once you find a new team, you can join it right away and send a message to @SG Free Agent Admin (who is the captain of the Free Agent team), and you will be removed from free agency. 

While this new approach will help list free agents and offer an additional way to be seen, for the best result in finding a team, we still recommend following the other tips in this news story!
 

EU Clubs looking for players - PlayStation 5 & Xbox Series X|S

In this section of the forum, you can let everyone know when your team is looking for players, which means free agents can find teams by browsing this thread. You will find a "reply to topic" section under the last message on the page. Here you can write your "club looking for players" post, where you tell us about the club and what kind of player you are looking for. You can look for good tips for your post in the numerous posts written by other clubs.

Please note that both of the above-mentioned forum threads are meant only for writing the "ads". When you see something you're interested in, please use private messaging (e.g., SportGamer, Discord, PSN, or Xbox Live) to contact them. Usually, the writer of the post will let you know how best to get in touch. So here is your reminder: whenever you post, remember to mention how to best get in touch with you.

Useful tips

In addition to these previous tools, we recommend that you be active and try to play as much as possible.

• On our Discord server, you will find a section called "free for tonight".
  In this section, you can sign up for free play, and of course, if you're lucky, you might find some people who want to play with you in the future.
   
• Another good tip that works is to add "FA" or "Free Agent" to your player's name in the game so that your teammates and opponents can see during the game that you are looking for a team.

There you have it! We hope you find these tips useful. Feel free to share your advice in the comments. Good luck finding the perfect match!

The ECL is the pinnacle of European NHL esports. The abbreviation stands for the European Championship League and it features NHL 6v6 esports in five divisions aimed at various skill levels. Every player, including the goalies, is controlled by a human. League games are played in the EASHL mode and the platform is PlayStation and Xbox. ECL has been played since 2015, so the upcoming season is already the 21st. The latest addition to the ECL product family is a 1v1 tournament, where Europe's best solo players fight for the championship. ECL 1v1 has been played since the ECL '23 Winter season.
 

Basic information/requirements of ECL:

• Regional restrictions: ECL is a European tournament format, however, we do not necessarily exclude players located in North America or Asia. A European server will always be used. We reserve the right to exclude teams or players in case of severe connection issues.
   
• Individual requirements: Each player needs to have an account at SportsGamer.GG and create their personal player card.
   
• ECL licenses: Teams in ECL Elite & ECL Pro, ECL Lite, and ECL Core will require their respective ECL ‘26: Spring team licenses in order to play. In addition, every player in the above-mentioned divisions needs to have a valid ECL ‘26: Player License or ECL ‘26: Winter Player License before taking the ice. Players in ECL Neo require only an ECL '26: Spring Neo Player License. More information about licenses will be available in the "Sign up now" article, coming soon.
   
• Rules: The ECL '26: Spring rulebook will be an updated version of the '26 Winter rulebook and will be shared soon. The Spring season will be played without Abilities.

The divisions framework for the ECL ‘26 year will follow the same logic as for previous seasons. We will have a total of five divisions with the following team allocation:

• Elite 16 teams
• Pro 32 teams
• Lite 64 teams
• Core (up to) 128 teams
• and Neo 32+ teams.
   

Please refer to this ECL Ranking in order to understand which teams are eligible to sign up for each division.

Generally speaking, teams that are new to the ECL will start in the Neo or Core division. However, it is possible to apply for the ECL Lite if you believe you can compete at that level.

Don't have a team yet? Team looking for additions to your roster?

If you are a free agent looking to be picked up, please head over here.

If you are representing a team looking for players, please head over here.
 

Hall of Fame: The ECL Champions so far

ECL 6v6:

• ECL 1: Nordic Blizzard
• ECL 2: Mukimiehet
• ECL 3: X Factor
• ECL 4: Laser HT
• ECL 5: Aapon Taikasauva
• ECL 6: Carlsberg HC
• ECL 7: FILADELPHIA
• ECL 8: Written In the Stars
• ECL 9: Linköping HC
• ECL 10: HAVU Gaming
• ECL 11: FILADELPHIA
• ECL 12: hREDS
• ECL '22: Grand Champion: hREDS
  • ECL '22 Winter: hREDS
  • ECL '22 Spring: hREDS
• ECL '23: Grand Champion: Tunnel Vision
  • ECL '23 Winter: Tunnel Vision
  • ECL '23 Spring: Tunnel Vision
• ECL '24: Winter Champion: hREDS
• ECL '24: Spring Champion: Tunnel Vision
• ECL '25: Winter Champion: Parasite
• ECL '25: Spring Champion: Last Dance
• ECL '26: Winter Champion: Tohtorit

ECL 1v1:

• ECL '23: Winter: Sisu "sisu33_" Nurminen
• ECL '23: Spring: Väinö "Pikkarii" Pikkarainen
• ECL '24: Grand Champion: Teemu "Temppanen" Karvonen
  • ECL '24: Winter: Erik "EkiOriginal" Tammenpää
  • ECL '24: Spring: Väinö "Pikkarii" Pikkarainen
• ECL '25: Spring: Teemu "Teemuyy" Polttila
• ECL '26: Winter: Teemu "Teemuyy" Polttila

SportsGamers,

This news story is intended to help understand the ECL Ranking for teams at the end of the ECL '26: Winter season. This ranking determines the eligibility for teams entering various divisions this upcoming ECL '26: Spring season. 

Below you will find a list of teams that have secured a division spot at the Elite, Pro, or Lite league level. If you didn't find your team on the list, don't worry! You can apply for a wildcard spot for your team in the Pro qualifiers or apply to the Lite, Core, or Neo divisions, which are open to everyone.

Please note that the Qualifiers will be starting very soon, and the registration time will be short, so start mentally and psychologically preparing for them as we look to release the details regarding the ECL '26: Spring season. Season registration is now available by clicking here.

Pro Qualifier Wildcard procedure has been updated

• Anyone can now apply to play in the ECL '26: Spring - Pro Qualifiers by checking the appropriate box during season registration.
• While the Wildcard restrictions have been lifted and there are no absolute requirements for applying, League Administration will still review Qualifier Applications (identified by PRO QUAL REQ on the registered teams page). As such, teams with more experience still have a better chance of making the cut and playing in the Qualifiers. All teams will be notified once the decisions have been made.
• To be properly evaluated for the Qualifier spot, please have your full roster in your SportsGamer ECL '26: Spring roster as early as possible.
• The number of available Wildcard spots may vary depending on the quality of the applications.
   

What if all Pro Qualifier positions are not filled?

• Teams will not be promoted straight, and all open spots will be filled through qualifiers (excluding automatically relegated/promoted teams). If there happen to be more open spots than anticipated (e.g., from teams disbanding, which would have been invited to play in the qualifier), spots are filled as follows:
  • Pro relegated teams
  • Wildcard teams
  • Lite #17-32

All teams without an Elite, Pro, or Lite league spot can participate and choose to apply for ECL Lite without restrictions. There will be no ECL Lite qualifier for ECL '26: Spring, but a maximum of 64 teams can participate in the season, so signing up on time is encouraged. Spots will be filled in the order of registration.

As always, League Administration will monitor sign-ups and reserve the right to step in to make sure teams don't sign up too high or low compared to their perceived skill level.

The ECL '26: Winter season in the Core division is over — and HC Lisko are champions. Coming in as the #9 seed, nobody was handing them anything. But HC Lisko didn't need anyone to hand them anything — they went out and took it.

Their playoff road tells the whole story: a 4–0 dismantling of German Elite Hockey (4) in the semis, and a 4–2 victory over the heavily favored #2 seed HC Punishers in the Finals. The higher seed didn't matter. The bracket didn't matter. When the moments were biggest, Lisko was best.

The numbers: Playoff scoring leaders (HC Lisko)

• Supra_90 (V. Puupponen) — 23 GP, 63P (40G, 23A), 6 GWG, 53.3% S%
• eipaapaa (T. Lähde) — 25 GP, 58P (22G, 36A), 7 GWG, 21% S%
• Zambouni_ (S. Heikkilä) — 25 GP, 53P (13G, 40A), 7 GWG, 20.6% S%
• Vertti91 (V. Komulainen) — 25 GP, 32P (8G, 24A)
• Tero__Nuppi (P. Lepola) — 25 GP, 21P (1G, 20A)

Laspar: The backbone of a championship run

• 25 GP, 20–3–2
• 84.62% SV%, 1.92 GAA
• 4 shutouts

Twenty wins. Four shutouts. Laspar (L. Koos) was the anchor HC Lisko needed, and he delivered it across 25 playoff games. That kind of consistency over a long postseason run doesn't happen by accident.

HC Lisko's road to the championship

• Semifinals: HC Lisko (9) 4–0 German Elite Hockey (4)
• Finals: HC Lisko (9) 4–2 HC Punishers (2)
   

ECL '26: Winter – Core Champions roster (HC Lisko)

Skaters

• @eipaapaa (T. Lähde)
• @Zambouni_ (S. Heikkilä)
• @Supra_90 (V. Puupponen)
• @Vertti91(V. Komulainen)
• @Tero__Nuppi (P. Lepola)
• @tolbati (A. Koukidis)
• @mogambomoroo (G. Velinov)

Goalie

• @Laspar (L. Koos)

Congratulations HC Lisko — Core '26 Winter Champions. 🏆

The ECL '26: Winter season in the Lite division is over — and Renegade IHC are champions. Coming in as the #2 seed, they carried the expectations that come with that tag and delivered on every single one of them. A 4–2 semifinal win over Tinted Visors, followed by a dominant 4–1 Finals victory over Wida — clean, clinical, and convincing.

This wasn't a team that scraped through. Renegade IHC looked like the best team in the division for most of the season, and when the playoffs came, they proved it.

The numbers don't lie

The offensive engine for Renegade IHC was firing on all cylinders throughout the playoff run. Foppatofflan and MartindalexC combined for over 100 points between them, while NotzPanthers quietly put up one of the most productive two-way playoff performances in the division. When everyone on your top six is contributing at this level, opponents simply run out of answers.
 

The numbers: Playoff scoring leaders (Renegade IHC)

• Foppatofflan (A. Liljegren) — 20 GP, 75P (26G, 49A), 11 GWG, 37.1% S%
• MartindalexC (C. Martindale) — 20 GP, 57P (22G, 35A), 12 GWG, 26.2% S%
• NotzPanthers (J. Holland) — 20 GP, 57P (30G, 27A), 16 GWG, 26.3% S%
• KnightK10 (K. Knight) — 20 GP, 16P (5G, 11A)
• Komir_90 (M. Salvi) — 20 GP, 15P (1G, 10A)
   

Calxm86: Steady when it mattered most

• 20 GP, 16–4–0
• 86.18% SV%, 1.76 GAA
• 6 shutouts

Calxm86 (C. Mcateer-Ellis) was a consistent presence throughout 20 playoff games, posting numbers that gave his teammates the platform to go to work offensively. Sixteen wins across a full playoff run is as reliable as it gets.

Renegade IHC's road to the championship

• Semifinals: Renegade IHC (2) 4–2 Tinted Visors (14)
• Finals: Renegade IHC (2) 4–1 Wida (6)

ECL '26: Winter – Lite Champions roster (Renegade IHC)

Skaters

• @Foppatofflan (A. Liljegren)
• @MartindalexC (C. Martindale)
• @NotzPanthers(J. Holland)
• @KnightK10 (K. Knight)
• @Komir_90 (M. Salvi)

Goalie

• @Calxm41 (C. Mcateer-Ellis)

AAkerho are ECL '26: Winter – Neo Champions after a dominant playoff run

The ECL '26: Winter season in the Neo division is over — and AAkerho are champions. Neo is the lowest division in the ECL system, but this title is anything but small — this is where journeys begin, and AAkerho showed exactly what kind of team they are.

AAkerho moved through the playoffs with the efficiency and cold-bloodedness that only a well-organized team can deliver. Kekymasa and Simppa711 dominated offensively throughout, while goaltender Stevie_harvey  stood as a wall behind them — posting an 87.31% save percentage and 1.79 GAA across the playoff run.
 

The numbers: Playoff scoring leaders (AAkerho)

• Kekymasa (M. Loppi) — 19 GP, 65P (36G, 29A), 5 GWG, 28.3% S%
• Simppa711 (S. Darby) — 19 GP, 62P (23G, 39A), 4 GWG, 27.7% S%
• NUPENVIINA (H. Björninen) — 19 GP, 45P (15G, 30A), 26.8% S%
• janindou (J. Kaskela) — 19 GP, 21P (5G, 16A)
• Baskis (H. Pantti) — 16 GP, 9P (1G, 8A)

Stevie_harvey: The foundation that wins titles

• 19 GP, 15–3–1
• 87.31% SV%, 1.79 GAA
• 1 shutout

When AAkerho needed a big save in a crucial moment, Stevie_harvey delivered. That kind of goaltending wins championships — and it did here.

ECL '26: Winter – Neo Champions roster (AAkerho)

Skaters

• @keky-MASA
• @Simppa711
• @portsari2 
• @Nupenviina 
• @janindou 
• @Baskis2 
• @Anssiventero 
• @hulcci 
• @Leoliina

Goalie

• @Stevie_harvey

Head Coach / Manager

• @Drhockey 

Congratulations AAkerho — Neo '26 Winter Champions. 🏆

After a seven-game Finals series that had overtime drama, a stunning blowout, and a Game 7 for the ages, Tohtorit have been crowned Elite division champions for the ECL '26: Winter season, defeating vNexs I 4-3 in the Finals.

But to understand just how much this title means, you have to start with the team they had to go through to get there.

The Elephant in the Room: vNexs I and the FINSeRe Story

HAVU Gaming entered this season as the heavy favourites. Formed from the merger of Parasite and Last Dance — two of the most decorated clubs in ECL history — they were widely considered a superteam, and their regular season backed that up: first place in the Elite division with 67 points.

Standing in their way in the Semifinals was a 6-seeded vNexs I side that, on paper, had no business being there — but whose playoff numbers told a very different story. @dippen04 and @AntonLxnd would finish the postseason as the two highest-scoring players in the entire division, while @pappeen- led all defencemen in points. This was not a team that got lucky. And adding a deeply personal dimension to the matchup was their goaltender @FINSeRe — a man who had spent the previous four seasons with the very club he was now trying to eliminate, winning two ECL Elite titles and a Finnish Championship along the way. This was the club he helped win in the past. And in a 4-3 Semifinal series, he and his new teammates sent them home.

It was one of the great individual storylines of the ECL season, and it set the stage for a Finals run that captured the imagination of the whole community.

The Road to the Final

Tohtorit, seeded second after an 18-win regular season, had their own business to take care of. They swept KUUSAMO.gg 4-0 in the Quarterfinals and then dispatched GOONS 4-1 in the Semifinals — efficient, clinical, and giving away very little. While vNexs I were making headlines with their upset run, Tohtorit were quietly doing what they do.

The two teams met in the Finals as, arguably, the most deserving pairing left standing.

A Finals Series to Remember

The series opened with back-to-back overtime games. @Ojala16 won Game 1 in extra time for Tohtorit after Dippen04 had put vNexs I ahead, and Pappen and Dippen04 combined to take Game 2 back for vNexs I. Two nights in, one game each, and the series already felt like it could go anywhere.

Tohtorit then took control with back-to-back wins. Game 3 ended with @Kkarkass burying a gut-punch winner with one second left on the clock, and Game 4 saw @Harlowi- score twice as Tohtorit pushed to a commanding 3-1 series lead.

Then vNexs I did what good teams do. Game 5 was a statement: Dippen04 completed a hat trick, AntonLxnd had a four-point night, and Pappen added four assists in a 6-3 demolition that made it clear this series wasn't over. Game 6 was another overtime classic — AntonLxnd scored a powerplay equaliser with under a minute left in regulation and then won it in overtime to force a Game 7.

Game 7: Ojala's Night

When the dust settled, it came down to one man.

Ojala16 scored all four of Tohtorit's goals in Game 7. He opened at 2:38 of the first, made it 2-0 in the second, and added two more in the third to close it out 4-1. @Stammer70 was immovable in net with a 94.12% save percentage. When the final buzzer went, Tohtorit were Elite champions for the first time in the club's history.

Over the full seven-game series, Ojala16 was the best player on either side. Across the entire playoffs he finished among the top scorers in the division with 30 points in 16 games at a remarkable +16. As the captain and one of the founders of Tohtorit, his overtime winner in Game 1 set the tone. His Game 7 wrote the final chapter.

ECL '26: Winter – Elite Champions Roster

🇫🇮 #10 Timi @Kkarkass Kärkäs

🇫🇮 #16 Tuomas @Ojala16 Ojala (C)

🇫🇮 #70 Stan @Stammer70 Adamus

🇫🇮 #86 Joonas @Patzlaf Paatiala

🇫🇮 #88 Jere @Harlowi- Paloranta (A)

🇫🇮 #91 Tuukka @FlyerKungen Kuha

🇫🇮 #96 Juuso @TheSpeedo Sirkola

Winner Interviews

Tuomas @Ojala16 Ojala, Captain, Left-Wing

Q: Four goals in Game 7 of a Finals — take us inside that game. Were you feeling it early, or did it just happen?

A: I enjoy high-pressure situations and I know I can handle them. So I just went into the game relaxed and confident. I wasn't thinking about scoring four goals. I was only thinking about winning. I believe a captain has to be able to help his team in tough moments. But I have to admit that when I scored my second goal, I started to feel like this was just the beginning. From that moment on I just wanted the puck.
 

Q: vNexs I pushed you to 3-3 after you were up 3-1. How did the team respond mentally going into that deciding game?

A: We were still very confident even after they tied the series. We knew it's pretty hard to beat us three times in a row. Our team had experience that the opponent didn't have, and players who have proven before that they perform well in big moments even outside the NHL.
 

Q: You've been with Tohtorit for almost your entire career, working your way up through the divisions together. What does it mean to finally lift the Elite title with this club?

A: When we started, hardly anyone would have believed we'd make it this far. A few seasons ago we decided that instead of forcing ourselves to chase a championship, we'd rather focus on having fun. Now we had fun and we won the championship. We didn't practice that much during the season, so I think our great team spirit was one of the key factors behind the title. And I have to admit, it feels pretty good to win it with your own club.

Stan @Stammer70 Adamus, Goalie

Q: Two overtime games, a 6-3 blowout against you, and then a Game 7 — that's a lot of emotional swings for a goalie. How do you stay locked in through a series like that?

A: Staying locked in doesn't require anything special. When you play as a goalie, the most important thing is always the next situation and the next opportunity. Even though I faced one difficult game, I knew the whole time that I'm the best goalie at the moment, which gave me calmness and confidence between the pipes.
 

Q: Game 7, 94% save percentage, 4-1 win. What was going through your mind when that final buzzer went?

A: When the final buzzer went, my head was full of different emotions. The strongest feelings, however, were pride in our team and the six-year journey of Tohtorit to reach this point. In Game 7 I made a few good saves, but an even greater performance was shown by the five players in front of me. Especially Ojala — absolutely mental game from him.
 

Q: Both you and FINSeRe put up near-identical numbers across the playoffs. What was it like going up against him in the Finals, and how do you reflect on the goaltending battle in this series?

A: For me this was maybe the most fun goalie matchup I have ever played. In my opinion, the Finals delivered a goalie battle worthy of them. Both of us were required to make big saves at crucial moments, and I think both goalkeepers managed to do that. I truly think that without FINSeRe, vNexs I wouldn't have been anywhere close to the Finals, so they should be really pleased with how things went.

We would like to congratulate Tohtorit — Elite champions for the first time in the club's history, built from the ground up by the people who believed in it from the start. And to vNexs I, what a run. A 6-seed that toppled the division's superteam before pushing the champions all the way to Game 7. See you next season.

Voting has ended, and the winners have been announced. As the season has ended and we prepare for the next, have a look at the winners, and maybe you see yourself here next season.

Player of The Season
The Top Player award is awarded to a player who has excelled above the competition in their own position.

Winner: @Hydeee_24

Defender of The Season
The Top Defender award is awarded to a player who has excelled above the competition in their defenseman position.

Winner: @LE1PAKONE (Nordzman)

Goalie of The Season
The Top Goalie award is awarded to a player who has excelled above the competition in their goaltender position.

Winnrer: @Hullued

Rookie of The Season
The Rookie Of The Season award is awarded to a player in their rookie ECL Pro season, who has excelled above the competition regardless of position.

Winner: @1mmu9
 

Two-Way Forward of The Season
The two-way forward of the season is awarded to a forward who best excels in the defensive aspects of the game.

Winner: @Anhel_Kuru
 

Hi Gamers,

As communicated previously, the League Administration has come to the decision that once the current ECL season has finished (end of day Thursday), any subsequent tournaments will be played with all X-factors banned. 

We have come to this decision based on community feedback, as well as examining the current trend of EA Sports themselves, with the battle pass becoming more and more pay-to-win - an idea that we at SportsGamer vehemently disagree with. 

Furthermore, a key aspect that we weighed up was the potential pros and cons of instituting a variable ban list depending on community feedback, and which traits they viewed as overpowered and which ones they viewed as underpowered. While in a perfect world we would of course like to allow players to play with minimal restrictions and be more in line with what EA envisioned for the game, we felt that considering the murkiness of some traits, and the general lack of information provided by EA as to how each trait fundamentally works (as well as interaction with others), that any discussions down the line would become prone to misinformation and negativity towards other players.

As we head into the upcoming tournaments, we’d like to share a quick reminder of the current passwords to use when applying for daily competitive training games:

• ECLPro – for Elite / Pro and Pro / Elite Qualifying teams
• ECLLite – for Lite / Core teams
• ECLNeo – for Neo teams

While we understand the desire to challenge yourself and want to play tougher teams, please respect the divisions as mentioned above for use with each password. The whole point of the password system is diminished if, for example, Core teams use the Pro password, and so on.

Please also remember to avoid using abilities and special builds when playing these training games. This helps ensure fair and consistent gameplay across all divisions. Information about the upcoming ECL '26: Spring season will be available soon, so now is a good time to start thinking about your updated line-ups, if you haven't already.

Thank you for your cooperation — and have fun out there!

Thanks,
League Administration

POGGERS are ECL ’26: Winter – Pro Champions after steamrolling the playoffs

The ECL ’26: Winter season in the Pro division is over — and POGGERS are champions. In a Finals series that had real weight behind it, POGGERS defeated Unique 4–1, finishing the job with the kind of cold-blooded efficiency that only a veteran group can deliver.

What makes this title even more impressive is how the season started. POGGERS dropped points early and looked anything but unstoppable for stretches of the group stage. But like elite teams tend to do, they corrected course, stabilized their game, and still finished the group stage in a solid position — enough to get in, because in this league, making playoffs is everything. Once the postseason starts, the slate is clean.

And once the slate was clean, POGGERS looked like POGGERS again.
 

From last season’s disappointment to a completely different playoff identity

There’s also a very real narrative here: last season, POGGERS weren’t a factor when it mattered. They entered as the #7 seed and got bounced immediately — swept in Round 1 by Almost Famous. This Winter? Different mindset, different edge, different outcome.

Instead of being the experienced team that “should” win but doesn’t, they became the experienced team that turns every important moment into their comfort zone.
 

The numbers: Playoff scoring leaders (POGGERS)

• JaKurrii — 20 GP, 43P (21G, 22A), 4 GWG, 43.8% S%
• Ghettomasi — 20 GP, 41P (20G, 21A), 6 GWG
• Migo_boona — 20 GP, 35P (5G, 30A)
• meidanmatti — 20 GP, 30P (13G, 17A)
• Julius97_ — 20 GP, 24P (7G, 17A)
   

Hullued: the safety (in) net that wins titles

• 20 GP, 16–2–2
• 87.46 SV%, 2.05 GAA
• 2 shutouts

And when POGGERS needed shutdown goaltending — especially in the big moments — Hullued delivered.
 

POGGERS’ road to the championship

• Round 1: POGGERS (6) 4–0 NOSTREETSPORTS (3)
• Quarterfinals: POGGERS (13) 4–3 Puck Over Glass (1)
• Semifinals: POGGERS (13) 4–0 Finnish Roosters (2)
• Finals: POGGERS (13) 4–1 Unique (9)
   

ECL ’26: Winter – Pro Champions roster (POGGERS)

Skaters

• @JaKurrii (J. Koivuniemi)
• @Ghettomasi (H. Raittinen)
• @Migo_boona (M. Nurmi)
•  @Yoloberg (M. Hämäläinen)
•  @Julius97_ (J. Rissanen)
• @LaurinHaavi   (J. Eerola)

Goalie

•  @Hullued (J. Saarinen)
  
   

Congratulations to the team and all the players, see you in Elite! Thank you, all teams and readers, for this season!

Our ECL Player Awards vote is making a return, and all of you will have the opportunity to impact who will receive the individual awards at the end of the season. We have six categories in total, with no nominees this year, based on community feedback.

Voting will open effective immediately, and we're asking you to cast your votes by Friday, February 27th at 23:59 CEST.

Voting has closed

List of categories and their description:

Player of The Season
The Top Player award is awarded to a player who has excelled above the competition in their own position.
 

Defender of The Season
The Top Defender award is awarded to a player who has excelled above the competition in their defenseman position.
 

Goalie of The Season
The Top Goalie award is awarded to a player who has excelled above the competition in their goaltender position.
 

Rookie of The Season
The Rookie Of The Season award is awarded to a player in their rookie ECL Pro season, who has excelled above the competition regardless of position.

Two-Way Forward of The Season
The two-way forward of the season is awarded to a forward who best excels in the defensive aspects of the game.

After a brutal season of non-stop action, Europe's absolute top teams are ready for a showdown. These squads have clawed their way here through hell and back, with massive stakes beyond just hoisting the trophy. Four wins from immortality, but only one gets the crown. This finals banger deserves a rewind on their wild paths, a deep dive into the chaos ahead, plus our bold calls as always. Enough hype, let's roll into the preview and unpack how they got here.
 

Tohtorit

• Regular Season: 18-14-1-7 (63pts) 2nd in Elite Division
   
• Quarterfinal: 4-0 vs (7) KUUSAMO.gg
• 5-2 W, 3-4OTW, 3-2OTW, 2-0 W
   
• Semifinal: 4-2 vs (4) GOONS
• 1-5 L, 2-1 OTW, 0-1 W, 7-1 W, 0-3 W

Season Summary

Tohtorit has been a dominant team for the entire regular season, right there with HAVU Gaming. They were one of the top teams this season, and with HAVU out, Tohtorit takes their spot as the favourites to win. As for the regular season, they took it upon themselves to be the best defensive team in the league. Now they're in the finals and putting their defense to the test against a team that has fought their way through hell to be here. Tohtorit's season is coming down to a best-of-seven series; now is the time to put their best foot forward and take home the trophy.

In the quarterfinals, they put their defense to the test immediately against a skillful Kuusamo.gg team, with 7 goals conceded in four games, and a shutout, you could say they were successful. For any other team, yes, for Tohtorit, this was bang-average defense. With a sweep in the series, you always assume that the other team was dominated. For this series, the answer was yes and no, Kuusamo.gg challenged Tohtorit with two games going to overtime, but with great defense comes great results.

For the semifinals, Tohtorit managed to take out Goons in another dominant performance; it just seems there is no stopping this Tohtorit team. Goons took a surprising game 1 win by the score of 5-2, showing the scene that this Tohtorit team isn't invincible. One of the best offensive teams in Elite, Goons took Tohtorit by surprise and had a real shot to advance, but Tohtorit adapted quickly and won four straight after that, Goons scored twice in those four games, which highlights just how unpredictable the playoffs can be.

Now in the finals, Tohtorit will face vNexs, who faced off in the season opener, which Tohtorit managed to take full points, hopefully this finals series will be as tight of a series as that matchup, in which Tohtorit won both games by one goal. The playoffs are a different breed, and everybody who has ever played in the ECL playoffs at any level knows that it's just different. Now we get to see the best of the best faceoff in a thrilling battle for the ultimate prize. There is no higher prize in the ECL ladder than the Elite championship.

If Tohtorit want to avoid a loss in this series, they need to take vNexs seriously. They're brimming with confidence and are ready to fire on all cylinders heading into this series. With their defense, Tohtorit have every tool in their toolbox to tear the Swedes apart as the Finns did in the Olympics. @Stammer70 is still the favourite to be the starter for Finland in the upcoming games, and now he's going to show just how good he is.

Player to Watch

@Ojala16

His story has gone on for a while; he has found his best gear in the ECL this season, showing the entire ECL that he is one of the best talents in EU. Now in the finals, looking for his first championship, we'll get to see firsthand just how talented this winger really is.

Projected Starting Lineup

LW - @Ojala16- (9gp, 8 goals, 10 assists, 2GWG, 70 Giveaways)

C - @Patzlaf- (9gp, 11 goals, 49,5 faceoff %, 15 interceptions, 42,3 shooting %)

RW - @Harlowi- - (9gp, 6 goals, 21pts, 27 shots, 0GWG)

LD - @Kkarkass- (9gp, 4 assists, 2 goals, 6pts, 6 PIM, 20 hits)

RD - @FlyerKungen- (9gp, 2 goals, 7 assists, 9pts, 34 hits, 0 PIM)

G - @Stammer70- (9gp, 8 wins, 84,78 SV%, 3 shutouts)

vNexs

• Regular Season: 15-4-3-8 (56pts) 6th in Elite Division

• Quarterfinal: 4-3 vs (3) Mythix
• 1-0 L, 6-2 W, 8-1 W, 4-2 L, 2-1 W, 2-1 L, 4-2 W
   
• Semifinal: 4-3 vs (1) HAVU
• 5-0 W, 1-0 L, 0-1 L, 1-2 W, 1-0 W, 2-1 OTL, 6-1 W

Season Summary

vNexs, which was quite a refreshing sight to the ECL scene when they started their journey, have teams in all ECL divisions and try to implement a system in which they promote players from within, giving players familiar play styles within the organization and a gateway for people to gain easier entry to the different divisions. Their star-studded group of Swedes has had a great season so far. I mean, they're in the finals; that's a given, but considering many had them in their preseason projections missing the playoffs, you could say they're on a tear right now.

They had no easy task in the quarterfinals; their first opponent was reigning FCL champions Mythix, who were the clear favourites in this series, but vNexs showed that this was not the case. They took down Mythix in seven games and showed they lack no confidence this season. The almost full Swedish team has shown that game sevens are their speciality this season, so Tohtorit look out for this. The quarterfinals served as their show; they managed to show teams that their offense is one of the best in Elite, and the duo of @AntonLxnd & @Alpha borje are not ones to shy away from showing off their great individual talent.

Nobody expected vNexs to beat Mythix, let alone HAVU Gaming in the semifinals, but they came prepared, and HAVU came in with the assumption this was a walk on the beach? Lesson learned, don't underestimate your opponent. vNexs took this series in seven games, showing everyone once again that their talent is immense, they had done their homework and exposed the ECL veteran @Hansulinho in net, and really showing the true definition of the word "underdog".  Low scoring games, combined with a few high scoring wins they held HAVU to only 6 goals in 7 games, sounds strange when the series went to seven games, but HAVU won 2 games with the score 1-0 and got shutout in another 2 games, this isn't quite what everybody expected from the number one seed, this shows how dominant @FINSeRe can be when he wants to, still one of the most accomplished players in EU and gets disrespected by a big part of the community is outrageous.

Being in the finals, vNexs has the opportunity to show that not even the best defense in ECL can stop them, the showdown of best offense vs best defense is always great to see. They lost twice to Tohtorit in the regular season and have everything to play for now. Tohtorit have been great at stopping the best of wingers, but @FlyerKungen & @Kkarkass will have their hands full with the Swedish trio in offense. If the Swedish giants can now keep their production high and rely on their great goaltending, they will just see themselves in a similar situation as before in the quarterfinals and semifinals, with a real shot at winning.

If vNexs can keep these games high scoring, and keep Tohtorit on their toes and behind most games, they will be in the driver's seat this series, but if the games are low-scoring the roles will be reversed. Scoring first will be of utmost importance in this series. It's still shown with statistics that the team that scores first has the better chance to win in the end, and when it comes to eHockey, no exceptions. 

Interview with RW @Alpha borje

We caught up with @Alpha borje before the series, and he answered a few questions.

HF - "What has been the main reason for your success this season?"

AB - "The main reason for our success is the teamwork and good communication & the grind all season, I would say."

HF - "Who has been the leader within your team, and what has he done to stand out?"

AB- "Our leaders has been @pappeen-, and @antoniomannen004 who have been in the scene a long time and know what it takes! They help us stay calm and focused throughout the whole games! And clear in the communication."

HF - "Your rise from the Pro division into the Elite finals is quite something. What advice could you give to the new players trying to reach the same milestones as you?"

AB - "My advice would be to stay patient and keep working hard. Improvement takes time! And put in the grind! Listen to the feedback!

HF - "And lastly, what do you need to do to take home the championship trophy next week?"

AB - "We need to stay focused and calm the whole games, be disciplined, create chances from their mistakes, and dare to play what we do best, and last but not least have a good vibe in the party chat!"

Player to Watch

@dippen04

Has found his form with vNexs, one of the best goalscoring centers in the Elite division, will now faceoff against another great center in @Patzlaf. Now he has the chance to cement himself as a top 3 center in the highest division.

Projected Starting Lineup

LW - @AntonLxnd - (14gp, 15 goals, 11 assists, 1GWG, 110 Giveaways)

C - @dippen04 - (14gp, 16 goals, 12 assists 50,4 faceoff %, 32 takeaways, 35,6 shooting %, 6GWG)

RW - @Alpha borje - (14gp, 7 goals, 19pts, 43 shots, 109 hits)

LD - @pappeen- - (14gp, 19 assists, 0 goals, 19pts, 0 PIM, 38 hits)

RD - @antoniomannen004 - (14gp, 0 goals, 9 assists, 9pts, 63 hits, 0 PIM, 6 shots)

G - @FINSeRe - (14gp, 8 wins, 87,9 SV%, 2 shutouts, 1.36GAA)

Watch the Finals

Watch the Finals live on twitch.tv/ReactioMedia, with commentary by our very own @Tougie24

Wednesday, February 18th, 20:45 CET - Games 1-2

Thursday, February 19th, 20:15 CET - Games 4-7

After a crazy season full of ups and downs, the ECL Pro division, Europe's second-tier eHockey division, is finally down to the last two teams standing. These teams have fought through thick and thin to get here, and there's a ton riding on this beyond just lifting the cup. Four wins away from advancing to the Elite division, but only one gets to take it all home. A finals this stacked deserves a quick look back at how each team made it, a real breakdown of what's coming, and our honest predictions for who walks away with the Pro title. Enough talking, let's get into it and see how they earned their spot in this thing.

UNIQUE 17-2-3-8 (58pts)

Unique has had one hell of a comeback season in this season's ECL, after finishing 13th last season and ending up having to qualify for the Pro division. They eventually did it without breaking a sweat, and now sit one series win away from the Elite division, crazy isn't it? So if you're stuck in the Pro division thinking the Elite division is so far away, think again; Unique have shown that teamwork goes a long way in today's ECL. 

After the qualifiers, Unique got seeded into group 1, where they instantly set the tone with massive wins against SSK Prospects. This set the tone for Unique's whole season; they knew that they had what it takes to push themselves into the playoff mix, and eventually finished 5th in their group, being bested by MoDo hockey, who had the same amount of points in the regular season and got the 4th seed by a tiebreak of wins in the regular season.

Unique entered the first round matchup as somewhat favourites against a surprising vNexs ll, who had a surprising regular season. After a game 1 loss against the Swedish team, they won four in a row to secure a spot in the quarterfinals. What stood out for Unique in this series was their ability to close out the close games; they took the lead in all games and held that lead until the final buzzer, which is crucial in the playoffs.

In the quarterfinals, Unique had a familiar foe in Greatest, which they bested in 6 games. Once again losing the first game, they won three straight games and set themselves up to have a chokehold on the series. Unique managed to concede just once in their last 3 wins of the series, completely shutting out the high-octane offence of Greatest, who was the clear favourite in the series, showing how important @Kussan82 is to their game.

In the semifinals, Unique had the upset of the Pro division, taking down heavy favourites F0CUS in seven games. In a series where both teams had shutouts, it was an interesting series to follow. @Jakeexh showed he is an elite talent, being a menace in their feat towards the final. F0CUS had the chance to take down Unique after their games on monday where they had a 2-1 series lead, but Unique showed resilience and grit in clawing their way back to win the series.

Now they face POGGERS, who have had a rollercoaster of a season so far. If Unique wants to take down the former Elite team, they need to find that extra gear. POGGERS have the experience to end this series in four games. Defenseman @LE1PAKONE (Nordzman) has found his place again, now back on the blueline, he leads all defensemen in scoring (4+26) by a large margin and has shown the Pro division that he is the best defenseman in the league.

If Unique wants to play in Elite next season, they need to find a way to stop the incredible offense of POGGERS. So far, they've been great at stopping the opposing team's top players, but with the finals comes added pressure and a somewhat inexperienced (compared to POGGERS) Unique team could grab the controller a bit more tightly with casters, viewers, and the pressure of Elite at the tip of their fingers. If they can keep their heads cool and their defense on point, they have every chance to win this series.
 

Projected Starting Lineup

LW - @Jakeexh - (18gp, 19 goals, 25 assists, 44pts, 4GWG, 133 Giveaways)

C - @tonninen - (18gp, 12 goals, 51,6 faceoff %, 21 blocked shots, 10 PIM)

RW - @Ribbeex - (18gp, 19 goals, 41pts, 80 shots, 4GWG)

LD - @LE1PAKONE (Nordzman) - (18gp, 26 assists, 4 goals, 30pts, 0 PIM, 64 hits)

RD - @pakjiz - (18gp, 3 goals, 16 assists, 19pts, 52 hits, 2 PIM)

G - @Kussan82  - (18gp, 12 wins, 83,21 SV%, 3 shutouts)

POGGERS14-4-2-10 (52pts)

After a rocky start to the season where POGGERS lost important points, they eventually gathered themselves like the top team they are, they finished the group stage in 6th position. Now they face the 5th placed Unique, who they played against in the regular season, which goes to show that all that matters is making the playoffs; after that, it's a whole new game. POGGERS have shown for many seasons what they're capable of and can beat any team, on any day of the week if they feel like it.

POGGERS had an ok season last season, they took the 7th seed and got swept by Almost Famous in the 1st round. This season has been quite different for the veteran team. The regular season was filled with interesting matchups, and they faced one of the hottest teams in Pro in the 1st round, NOSTREETSPORTS. POGGERS went into the 1st round as heavy underdogs and proved everyone wrong. They swept the youngster team in four games, which seemed not even close. NOSTREET couldn't get anything going, and POGGERS took advantage, ending the series in an orderly fashion.

With the sweep in the 1st round, POGGERS were brimming with confidence and faced the number one-seeded Puck Over Glass and the division's top scorer; this didn't faze the veteran team one bit as they took them down in a different way, in seven games. Games went both ways the entire series, as all games but one or two were one-goal games. This is where POGGERS shine, they take home tight games with a scary percentage, and this finals series is no exception as they head into the finals series as slight favourites.

In the semifinals, they faced a similar foe in Finnish Roosters; both teams have been around for ages, and it showed as POGGERS completely outplayed Finnish Roosters and swept them in a similar manner as they did with their round 1 opponent. Finnish Roosters seemed to have used their energy in past matchups, as we saw a lifeless version of the team that cruised to a group win in the regular season. This shows how strong a team POGGERS is. @Hullued had a monster of a series, conceding only 1.5 goals per game, now facing a more creative team in Unique, his skillset will be invaluable to the defense of POGGERS.

Now POGGERS will face another high-octane offense with a great defense, and @JaKurrii has been their lifeline in these playoffs. As always, he has the talent to play in Elite, but as a veteran of the game, he's been leading POGGERS for a long time, and now is a good time show his true talent. Unique has a relatively new squad that has all the talent in the world to beat POGGERS, but the veteran team has what is needed the most in these clutch moments, and that's experience. As the whole team has played together for a long time, they all play the same playbook for the whole 60 minutes, which is invaluable and difficult to create.

If POGGERS want to advance, they need to play the same kind of defense they displayed in both series sweeps. They have a reputation of being sloppy when games don't matter that much, and that needs to be kept in check for the entire series. They can play the game in a way that is incredibly difficult to counter, with swift hands, pre-made tactics are always the most difficult thing to defend against, even if you can see it coming from a mile away. POGGERS have mastered that in the Pro division; if they can score on set plays, they'll win this series.
 

Projected Starting Lineup

LW - @JaKurrii - (15gp, 18 goals, 18 assists, 36pts, 4GWG, 77:36 TwP, 75 hits)

C - @Yoloberg (meidanmatti) - (15gp, 9 goals, 44,3 faceoff %, 19 blocked shots, 8 PIM)

RW - @Ghettomasi - (15gp, 9 goals, 30pts, 39 shots, 4GWG)

LD - @Julius97_ - (15gp, 13 assists, 4 goals, 17pts, 6 PIM, 56 hits)

RD - @Migo_boona - (15gp, 3 goals, 17 assists, 20pts, 24 hits, 8 PIM)

G - @Hullued - (15gp, 12 wins, 86,96 SV%, 1 shutouts)

Matchup to Watch

@Kussan82 vs @Hullued:

Follow this pair, as the outfielders have a tight battle ahead of them; this matchup will be the key to the championship. Kussan has raised the bar on his game all season long and led Unique to this point. And Hullued has just gotten better as the stakes have gotten bigger. Whoever can play better carries their team to the cup.

Predictions

Hifk_FANI: POGGERS in 6

@1mmu9: Unique in 6

@Bipes_bip0rus: POGGERS in 6

@MCH_98: Unique in 7

Broadcasts

Watch this series on Monday, games 1-3 (+4 if series is 3-0) in Finnish on https://www.twitch.tv/mkine.

The series continues on Tuesday in Finnish, games 4-7 in English on https://www.twitch.tv/reactiomedia.

We're heading into the Semifinals of Europe's second-highest eHockey league in ECL Pro! In this article, we'll dive into both series, what makes each team tick, who stands out from each team, and what I think both teams need to do to advance to the grand finale. We want to remind everyone that these articles are just for fun and are only one or a few people's opinions, so take it easy. We do these for the fun of it and for content's sake.

*This article is written as of 3rd of February 21:00 EET
 

Finnish Roosters (2) vs POGGERS (13)

Storyline

Both teams had a showdown of the year in the quarterfinals, Finnish Roosters with the comeback of the year in the last minute of game 7, erasing a 3-goal deficit and winning in overtime. Now they face their next challenge in POGGERS, who play a different style. POGGERS took down the favourites Puck Over Glass in seven games; their experience showed throughout the series, defending the regular season top scorer and his partner. Now they face each other, both teams rely on their offense to create chances, both have enough experience to last a life time, interesting matchup coming up.
 

Matchup

We'll follow the same style as in the Elite preview. In this series, we'll highlight both right-wingers @imosi vs @Ghettomasi. Both players sit in the top 10 for scoring, @imosi has the advantage by a few points (with 25 over 23, with 3 games more played). Both are instrumental in their team's offense and a driver for their breakout play. This matchup will come down to who finishes his chances better; both have the tools necessary to be the top scorer in ECL this season. It all comes down to the few clutch moments.
 

Breakdown

Both Finnish teams have the ability to be in the final, but as we all know, that's not going to happen. For this series, we'll see a close battle, where both teams will have their chances to score a lot. POGGERS have the advantage in breaking out, as Finnish Roosters trap on the blueline has the tendency to leak against better teams, if @JaKurrii can time his entry well, his defensemen will find him time and time again. Finnish Roosters, on the other hand, have the advantage in offensive zone play, where they have better patience in finding the right guy. If they get set u,p they're a hard team to beat with @imosi as their scorer.
 

Prediction

As the playoffs go further and we have tighter series, these predictions get a lot harder to predict. But hey whatever, we'll do it anyway. For my prediction in this series, we'll go with POGGERS in 6, with their offensive talent and Finnish Roosters playing 14 games already ( seven-game series), their gas tank is empty for this series. @Hullued will steal the show in this series and have two shutouts.

HifIk_FANI: POGGERS in 6

@1mmu9: Roosters in 7

@Bipes_bip0rus: POGGERS in 7, "A small difference between the pipes makes the difference, and POGGERS wins a thriller in game seven."

@MCH_98: POGGERS in 6

F0CUS (3) vs Unique (9)

*Series started monday with F0CUS taking a 2-1 series lead.


Storyline

F0CUS is now the heavy favourites to take home the championship after Puck Over Glass was eliminated, their chemistry and defense stands out over other teams and @rakkauspakkaus- has found his groove in the playoffs, going head-to-head with Uniques winger @Jakeexh for the top scorer in the playoffs. F0CUS took down their "toughest possible opponent" in seven games in xBots, after dominating game seven, @Gresu__ stood out in that game for F0CUS, and has the edge between the pipes over Uniques goalie @Kussan82 who has been incredible this post-season with a 85,37% save percentage so far and three shutouts.
 

Matchup

For this series we could choose any matchup, and it would be a great read, but we'll be a bit boring this time and choose top scorers @rakkauspakkaus- vs @Jakeexh. Both players are tough to read as players as both have the ability to be a scorer and a passer. Their matchup will come down to their teammates this time; they'll find them for great scoring opportunities, so it'll be up to @jm98II and @Ribbeex to light the lamp in this series.
 

Breakdown

A series is obviously easier to break down as they have already played three games, F0CUS leading by 2-1 heading into the final day on Thursday. All the games were closer than most expected. The 4-0 games do not tell the whole story. F0CUS led the series after two games, and had the chance to take a commanding 3-0 series lead, but goalie @Kussan82 shut out the favourites in a must-win game for Unique. In game one, we saw F0CUS take a 2-0 lead in the second period, and holding on to the win after a 2-1 goal in the third period. This series will come down to which team can score more; both teams have shown it can do that, but in tight games, the team with more poise will be the victor.
 

Prediction

The same goes for the prediction; it's not fun to do for a series that has already started. Fortunately, the predictions of @Bipes_bip0rus & @1mmu9 were submitted before yesterday's series start. My own prediction is the following: F0CUS wins game four in overtime with @MCH_98 scoring the overtime winner off a faceoff win. Unique with their backs against the wall win game five, but eventually F0CUS has the series winner in game six as @rakkauspakkaus- puts up five points and take F0CUS to the final.

Interview

We got a rare short interview from @jm98II after their 2-1 series lead on Monday:

HF "Congrats on the series lead, Joona. How will this affect your games on Thursday?"

JM "It doesn't, we'll stick to our own game."

HF "Alright then, what about @MCH_98 and his issues in the UK and having your backup in the quarterfinals?"

JM "The team hasn't given us permission to comment on things happening within the team, but we've addressed the situation in the locker room."
 

HF "Last question, Joona, what was your pre-game meal for today?"

JM "Spaghetti bolognese always gets the job done."

Predictions

Hifk_FANI: F0CUS in 6

@1mmu9: F0CUS in 6

@Bipes_bip0rus: Uníque in 7 "After their hard-earned series win against Greatest, they're glowing with confidence and take F0CUS by surprise."