EHC Visp and
HC Ajoie are set to light up the ice in Switzerland’s
National League on April 8, 2025. Both teams have had a roller-coaster season, but this matchup promises to be electrifying. With Ajoie leading the head-to-head tally 31-14, Visp has a steep hill to climb. Yet, history only tells part of the story, and it’s the players who will write the next chapter in this rivalry.
Roster Rundown: Key Players Stepping Up
EHC Visp’s front line is spearheaded by their dynamic forward, Jonas Müller, who has racked up 28 goals this season, making him a constant threat near the crease. Anchoring their defense is veteran blueliner Marc Steiner, whose 45 blocked shots and 20 assists demonstrate his dual-threat capability. Between the pipes, goalie Felix Gerber boasts a .915 save percentage, often bailing the team out with crucial stops. Unfortunately, Visp will be without their playmaker, Lukas Schmid, sidelined due to an upper-body injury, and defenseman Tom Meier out with a knee sprain.
For
HC Ajoie, sniper Alex Dupont leads the attack with 32 goals, often finding the back of the net with his wicked slapper. Supporting him is crafty center Pierre Lambert, who’s dished out 35 assists, orchestrating plays with precision. On defense, Lucien Roy has been a powerhouse, with 50 hits and a plus-minus of +15, solidifying Ajoie's back end. Goalie Jean-Claude Moreau, with a .920 save percentage, has been a wall, especially in tight games. They’ll miss the services of key winger Eric Dubois, nursing a groin injury, and defenseman Yannick Fuchs, out due to concussion protocol.
Head-to-Head: Ajoie’s Dominance in the Series
Historically, Ajoie’s had Visp’s number, winning 31 of their 45 encounters. Their latest clash saw Ajoie edge Visp 3-2, a testament to their enduring rivalry.
Recent Form: Performance Peaks and Valleys
EHC Visp’s recent form has been a mixed bag. They’ve suffered narrow losses to Ajoie twice, 3-2 and 4-5, but claimed victory 3-2 in a previous encounter. Wins against Basel, 4-3 and 3-2, show they've got firepower when needed.
HC Ajoie, meanwhile, has mirrored this inconsistency. After besting Visp twice, they fell to Lugano, 2-1 and 3-0. A loss to Visp, 3-2, was a rare slip in their otherwise firm grip over their rivals.
Wrap-Up: A Battle of Resilience and Skill
The upcoming match will test both teams' resilience and depth. For Visp, overcoming Ajoie’s potent attack will be paramount, especially without Schmid orchestrating their offense. Ajoie, on the other hand, must tighten defensively without Dubois, ensuring they can maintain their upper hand in this storied rivalry.
Summary: Who Takes the Ice?
Considering recent form and historical dominance, Ajoie enters the matchup with a slight edge. Their ability to capitalize on Visp’s defensive lapses could prove pivotal. Yet, Visp’s recent victories hint at a potential for upset. It’s anyone’s guess in hockey, but Ajoie’s deeper roster and recent track record might just see them skating away with another win. But, hey, I've been wrong before—who hasn't in this unpredictable game of ice hockey?
Match Odds EHC Visp – HC Ajoie
Leon's odds are - on EHC Visp prevailing on their territory.
At this moment our odds are equal to - on HC Ajoie visiting team's winning.
Draw odds are -.
