Week 8 of the 2025/26 Elite Ice Hockey League season marks the transition from October into November, as the league table begins to take shape and the final Challenge Cup group games edge closer to completion.

Wednesday night brings two key fixtures. Guildford Flames host Sheffield Steelers, just four days after their dramatic meeting at the Utilita Arena where Sheffield grabbed a last-minute winner. In Belfast, the Giants’ clash with Cardiff Devils forms part of the European Hockey Alliance annual conference, which will run over three days in the city.

There’s a rare three-game Friday night schedule this week. The Flames travel north to face Dundee Stars, while Manchester Storm host Fife Flyers at the Storm Shelter. Meanwhile, Belfast Giants begin a weekend road trip in England, starting with a visit to Nottingham Panthers.

Saturday brings another full slate of action. The Giants continue their road trip with a stop in Sheffield to take on the Steelers, while Nottingham welcome Coventry Blaze for the first of back-to-back home games. Manchester head south to face Cardiff Devils, and Fife host Glasgow Clan in one of the final remaining Challenge Cup fixtures in Scotland.

On Sunday, the Challenge Cup takes centre stage. Glasgow Clan host Dundee Stars in a game that could prove decisive in Group B qualification, while Sheffield Steelers make the trip to Kirkcaldy to face Fife Flyers. Guildford Flames also host Cardiff Devils in a Cup tie where neither side can advance after last week’s results.

Photo: Mark Ferris