A Powerful Season Unfolds for Hijs Hokij
Matias Mustonen skates during a game against the Liège Bulldogs on December 5, 2025. Photo by Sven Highland.
Sven is a freelance sports photographer with a focus on event coverage. See more of his photography on Instagram at @svenhighland.
Written by Gina Anton
At this point in the 2025–2026 season of the Central European Hockey League, UltimAir Hijs Hokij sits near the top of the league, second only to the leaders in the standings. In the CEHL Cup standings, they have collected 30 points over 14 games (8 wins, 3 overtime wins) with a +27 goal difference (60 scored, 33 conceded).
That’s a clear sign that Hijs Hokij are competing at a very high level this season. Both offensively and defensively, the team is putting up strong numbers. They’ve shown consistency over the past few months, managing to keep a good balance between scoring goals and keeping their opponents at bay.
Matias Mustonen: spearheading the offense
A big reason for Hijs Hokij’s success has been the form of Matias Mustonen. Mustonen leads the team with 27 points in 14 games (12 goals, 15 assists). That ranks him #2 overall league-wide on the points leaderboard, firmly establishing him among the top performers this season.
What stands out about Mustonen is not just his goal-scoring but also his playmaking. With 15 assists, he’s proving to be more than a finisher but a creative hub, helping set up many of Hijs Hokij’s scoring chances and guiding offensive flows.
In games like the recent 6-5 victory over the Leuven Chiefs, Mustonen was instrumental. He scored the overtime goal with the assist from Raymond van der Schuit and Mike van Oeveren, contributing heavily to the dominant performance and demonstrating that when the team needs a spark, he can deliver.
The squad behind the success
Of course, Hijs Hokij’s success isn’t down to one player, but it’s a collective effort. The roster shows depth across forwards and defense, combining experienced players with younger talents.
But Mustonen’s leadership on offense gives the team a reliable go-to player. Having a forward who can both finish and distribute well allows the rest of the squad of wingers, defensemen, and goalies to play with confidence, knowing that scoring chances will come. The balance between structured teamwork, solid goaltending, and individual brilliance seems to be what’s driving Hijs Hokij’s strong standings.
Moreover, the club’s reputation and commitment to quality hockey, from youth development to maintaining a strong fan base, provide a stable foundation. Hijs Hokij have long been among the most successful and well-supported clubs in their region.
What lies ahead and what to watch for
If Hijs Hokij wants to stay near the top, consistency will be key. Matias Mustonen will likely remain central: if he keeps producing points at this pace, it could significantly influence the team’s playoff hopes. At the same time, supporting players will need to step up, especially in tight games against other contenders.
It’ll also be vital to watch how the chemistry between the players develops as the season progresses. As defenses adapt and opponents focus on shutting down players like Mustonen, Hijs Hokij will need depth and tactical flexibility.
And for fans, there’s reason to be optimistic; the numbers so far, both team-wide and individually for Mustonen, suggest Hijs Hokij could be in for a very strong run.
