Genève-Servette Secures Third Place as Manninen Shines, Playoff Picture Takes Shape

Genève-Servette finished the National League regular season in third place following a decisive victory over Kloten, with Sakari Manninen playing a pivotal role. Meanwhile, other playoff matchups are beginning to solidify as the season concludes.

Manninen Leads Genève-Servette to Victory

Sakari Manninen opened the scoring just 56 seconds into the game and added another goal before the first period ended, setting the tone for Genève-Servette’s win against Kloten. Saarijärvi extended the lead in the 22nd minute, effectively ending any hope of a comeback from Kloten. Granlund added a brace late in the game to complete the scoring.

Lausanne Stumbles, Friborg Benefits

Lausanne faced a more challenging match against Ajoie, ultimately losing 3-2 despite an early lead. Czarnik scored for Lausanne, but Ajoie responded with goals from Mottet and Wick. Friborg capitalized on Lausanne’s loss, securing second place with a 4-3 win against Bern, despite being outshot 48-20.

Playoff Positioning and Matchups

Biel secured 10th place and will face Bern in the play-in round. Davos, as the league leader, was not significantly impacted by the result against Biel, who rested key players like Harri Säteri and Fabio Hofer, as well as Toni Rajala, in preparation for their upcoming series. Adam Tambellini scored twice for Biel in the 5-2 loss.

Rapperswil Advances, Ambri Faces Play-Out

Rapperswil defeated Ambri 6-2, with three goals scored into an empty net. Rapperswil will now host Zug in the play-in round, with the winner advancing to the quarterfinals and the loser getting a second chance against the winner of the Bern-Bienne series. Ambri will compete in the play-out against Ajoie.

Manninen’s Contract Extension

Sakari Manninen signed a two-year contract extension with Genève-Servette HC on January 25, 2025, demonstrating his commitment to the team. In 86 games with Genève-Servette, Manninen has recorded 79 points (32 goals, 47 assists). Genève-Servette Hockey Club

Recent Absence Due to Illness

Sakari Manninen was absent from Genève-Servette HC’s game against Lausanne HC on February 24, 2026, due to illness. swisshockeynews.ch

Manninen’s Return to Form

Genève-Servette has seen a resurgence in Sakari Manninen’s performance, as evidenced by his key contributions in recent games. In his first eight matches of 2024, Manninen only registered two points, but has since become a driving force for the team. Blick