AIK initially boasted a lineup bolstered by the return of key players Pär Lindholm and Andreas Johnson, fueling hope for another dominant display. However, the absence of their playoff stalwart, goalie Linus Söderström, loomed large. Stepping into the crease for AIK was Gustaf Lindvall who performed admirably but maybe should have done better with the match-winning goal.
Though Scandinavium buzzed with a near-capacity crowd, AIK controlled the first period, generating more scoring opportunities.
Frölunda's early powerplay proved fruitless against a resolute AIK defense. Lindvall, however, remained composed, making crucial saves and inspiring his teammates with a tenacious defensive effort. The period ended scoreless, with AIK holding a slight edge in shots (12-7).
The second period was a rollercoaster of emotions. Confusion reigned when Lindvall thought a penalty had been called on AIK after a net-mouth scramble. But play continued, presenting Jayden Halbgewachs with a golden chance on an empty net. In a scene-stealing display of athleticism, Lindvall defied logic with a miraculous stick save, arguably the most incredible stop of the year.
The intensity escalated further with a wrestling match between Oscar Lindberg and Malte Strömwall, leading to a flurry of penalties. Despite several powerplay chances, Frölunda couldn't capitalize against a determined AIK defense.
The third period remained a tense stalemate, with AIK dictating much of the play. Just as the tension reached a peak, and with only 2:15 remaining, Tom Nilsson delivered a surprise blow, scoring the game's first goal for Frölunda. The air went out of AIK's sails, and Max Friberg added an empty-netter with just seconds remaining to secure a crucial 2-0 victory.
MATCH FACTS
SHL
Play-offs
Match 3 of 7
Frölunda–Skellefteå AIK 2–0 (0–0, 0–0, 1–0)
Goals: 1–0 (57.45) Tom Nilsson, 2–0 (19.57) Max Friberg .
Shots: 23–30.
Penalties: F: 5x2 S: 7x2.
Referees: Tobias Björk, Mikael Holm.
Attendance: 12044 personer.
AIK lead series 2–1.