Berlin, Germany — The Eisbären Berlin have punched their ticket to the DEL championship series, defeating the Kölner Haie 4-1 in Game 6 of the semifinals to clinch the best-of-seven series 4-2.
The victory, secured on Monday night in Cologne, sends the defending champions into the final against Adler Mannheim, setting up a rematch of last year’s title showdown.
According to verified reports from rbb24 and Tagesspiegel, the Eisbären dominated from the outset, with Jonas Müller striking just seven minutes in to put Berlin ahead. Frederik Tiffels, a former Haie product born in Cologne, doubled the lead three minutes later.
Parker Tuomie pulled one back for Cologne in the 16th minute, but the Haie failed to capitalize on several power-play opportunities, including a rare double-advantage situation midway through the second period.
The middle frame saw both teams trade chances, though neither could break the deadlock. Cologne survived a two-minute minor penalty kill but failed to generate sustained pressure afterward.
In the third period, the Eisbären extended their lead through Markus Vikingstadt and Yannick Veilleux, who scored late to seal the outcome. Vikingstadt’s tally came with just over a minute remaining, followed by Veilleux’s empty-net goal to make it 4-1.
Goaltender Jonas Stettmer stood tall for Berlin, turning aside numerous high-danger chances, whereas Cologne’s Janne Juvonen kept his team in it until the final minutes despite being hampered by defensive lapses.
The win marks Berlin’s third consecutive appearance in the DEL final, underscoring their status as the team to beat in German hockey. For Cologne, the loss extends their championship drought to 24 years, with the franchise still seeking its ninth title.
Notably, the Haie began the series on the road due to scheduling conflicts at their home arena, a factor that may have contributed to their slow start. After dropping the first three games in Berlin, Cologne won two at home but could not close out the series.
With the semifinal series concluded, the DEL final is set to open Friday evening in Mannheim, with tipoff scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Local time.
The Eisbären will look to defend their crown against a Mannheim side that finished atop the regular-season standings, promising a high-stakes clash between two of the league’s elite franchises.
As the countdown to Game 1 begins, fans can expect a fiercely contested series defined by experience, tactical discipline and the pursuit of legacy.
Stay tuned to Archysport for live updates, post-game analysis, and exclusive coverage as the DEL final unfolds.
