Prague, Czech Republic – HC Škoda Plzeň dramatically flipped the script in their best-of-seven quarterfinal series against HC Sparta Praha, securing a 4-3 shootout victory on Friday, March 22, 2026. The win gives Plzeň a 2-1 series lead, shifting momentum in their favor as the teams prepare for the next clash.
The match, played at the Sportovní hala in Prague, was a back-and-forth affair marked by strong goaltending from both sides. While Sparta initially took the lead, Plzeň’s resilience and clutch performances in the third period and the subsequent shootout proved decisive.
Sparta opened the scoring late in the first period, with Adam Raška capitalizing on a play initiated by Jakub Krejčík. Despite a strong push from Plzeň, including several quality chances, Sparta’s goaltender Kořenář stood firm, denying attempts from Igor Merezhko and Christophe Lalancette. Shore nearly doubled Sparta’s advantage before the first intermission, but was turned away by Plzeň netminder Nick Malík.
Plzeň came out strong in the second period, earning a power play that they couldn’t convert, but maintained pressure. Stuart Percy’s smart play along the boards set up Lukáš Strnad for a tying goal, a hard shot that beat Kořenář cleanly. Just three minutes later, Strnad turned provider, finding Matyáš Filip for another goal, giving Plzeň a 2-1 lead. Filip Chlapík answered for Sparta with a power-play goal, knotting the score at 2-2 after 40 minutes of play.
The third period saw both teams trade chances. Filip’s drive was stopped by Kořenář, while Sparta’s Shore was denied by Malík. Michal Teplý put Plzeň ahead again, deflecting a shot from Igor Merezhko, but Jakub Krejčík quickly responded for Sparta, tying the game once more and sending it to overtime.
Overtime proved tense, with both teams cautious and unwilling to produce a costly mistake. Kořenář denied Christophe Lalancette, and Malík stopped a late rush from Shore. Kristians Rubins had a chance to win it for Plzeň, but couldn’t uncover the back of the net, setting the stage for a shootout.
In the shootout, Matyáš Filip and Petr Zámorský both scored for Plzeň, while Sparta managed only one goal, courtesy of Hyka. The 4-3 shootout win gives Škoda Plzeň a crucial 2-1 lead in the series.
VÝHRA!!!🔵⚪️
Bereme velmi důležitý bod v sérii!👊🏻#modrobila | #plzen pic.twitter.com/biKh1R92g0
— HC Škoda Plzeň (@HC_Plzen) March 22, 2026
Goaltender Nick Malík was instrumental in Plzeň’s victory, making 38 saves during regulation and overtime, and then holding his nerve in the shootout. He received accolades from fans despite allowing three goals, recognized for his overall performance and crucial saves throughout the game.
The series now shifts back to Plzeň for Game 4, scheduled for [Date and Time to be confirmed – information not available in provided sources]. Plzeň will look to capitalize on their momentum and move within one win of advancing to the semifinals, while Sparta will aim to even the series and regain home-ice advantage. Fans can follow updates and further details on the official HC Škoda Plzeň website: https://www.hcplzen.cz/
This victory marks a significant turning point in the quarterfinal matchup, showcasing Plzeň’s ability to perform under pressure and their growing confidence as the playoffs progress. The team’s ability to overcome adversity and secure a win on the road will undoubtedly boost their morale as they prepare for the next challenge.
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