Belfast Giants and Glasgow Clan make their first appearances of the 2025/26 season on Friday evening, both facing overseas opposition as pre-season gets underway in front of their home fans.
At the SSE Arena, Belfast will take on Norway’s Stavanger Oilers. Both games this weekend will be played under Champions Hockey League rules, giving the Giants valuable preparation ahead of their return to European competition next week. CHL regulations include variations to powerplay and shorthanded situations, as well as a ‘no returns’ overtime format.
“We’re facing a strong team in Stavanger,” said Giants Head Coach Adam Keefe. “They’ve competed in the Champions Hockey League many times before, and we know they’re one of Norway’s top clubs.”
Meanwhile, Glasgow Clan host Denmark’s Herlev Eagles at Braehead. The Danes are led by General Manager Guillaume Doucet, a familiar face for Clan fans from his playing days in Glasgow. Clan are able to begin pre-season on home ice this time around.
Players signed earlier this week have been registered and are eligible to feature in pre-season should the coaching staff decide to ice them.
Photo: Al Goold
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