The Cardiff Devils claimed their first-ever European title with a commanding 6-1 victory over French side Brûleurs de Loups to win the Continental Cup. This triumph makes the Devils only the second British team to win a European competition, following the Nottingham Panthers’ success in 2017.

 

A sold-out Vindico Arena erupted in celebration when Tyler Busch gave the Devils an unexpected lead in the sixth minute. Brûleurs de Loups, based in Grenoble, equalised 10 minutes later through Aurelien Dair. The Devils regained their advantage in the 23rd minute, with Kohen Olischefski setting up Brett Perlini for a composed one-on-one finish against Slovenian international goalkeeper Matija Pintaric. Perlini struck again seven minutes later, converting a rebound after Bayley Harewood’s shot was blocked.

 

Dreams became reality for the Devils as they netted twice in quick succession before the second-period buzzer. Josh MacDonald and Cole Sanford extended the lead to 5-1, leaving the Devils firmly in control heading into the final period. Perlini completed his hat-trick with an empty-net goal in the final minute, sealing a historic victory and igniting jubilant celebrations.

 

This victory marks the Devils’ ninth title in the 10 seasons since the club’s 2014 acquisition by owners Steve King, Brian Parker, Kelly Hughes, and Craig Shostak. During this era, the team has delivered unforgettable moments, including triumphs in the Challenge Cup, Playoffs, and Elite League.