Perhaps the game plan didn't include going down 5-3 on aggregate after just three minutes of the first period, with Jakub Jerabek delighting a relatively large visiting fan base. It seemed a long way back for AIK.
But the early blow seemed to spark AIK's comeback. They intensified their pace and displayed a determined attitude, countering the Czech team's heavy defensive lineup, including the 119-kilogram Richard Nedomlel.
Max Lindholm equalized in the 14th minute, assisted by Jonathan Pudas, who also contributed to the 2-1 goal. Andreas Johnson's debut impressed, playing with Zeb Forsfjäll and Dylan Sikura. Johnson's setup for AIK's third goal showcased his elite skills. The question now isn't if Johnson will be an asset, but how substantial his impact will be on AIK's future success.
Andreas Johnson's impact on AIK's third goal was immediate and impressive, demonstrating his exceptional skills. His collaboration with Dylan Sikura injected life into AIK's offensive play. However, the Czech guests, led by Rickard Panik, managed to equalize. Then Max Lindholm, AIK's standout player, secured AIK's lead with his third goal.
Elias Salomonsson then added a fifth goal, ensuring AIK's 5-2 victory. They were through to the CHL quarter-finals.
FAKTA
CHL
Skellefteå AIK – Trinec 5–2 (1–1, 2–0, 2–1)
Goals: 0–1 (03.19) Jakub Jerábek (Ruzicka, Dano), 1–1 (13.43) Max Lindholm (Pudas, Sandberg), 2–1 (30.59( Max Lindholm (Pudas, Sandberg), 3–1 (39.20) Dylan Sikura (Johnson, Z. Forsfjäll), 3–2 (43.56) Richard Paník, 4–2 (51.15) Max Lindholm (Nilsson, 5–2 (55.19) Elias Salomonsson (Heikkinen).
Shots: 35–24
AIK through to CHL quarter-final with an aggregate win of 8-6.
