Liiga vs EIHL- Elite Ice Hockey League

How would you compare/contrast Liiga and EIHL- Elite Ice Hockey League?

Across each league team for team, Liiga edges out EIHL in terms of skill level, but both of these leagues are strong with excellent domestic and import talent across these leagues.

Liiga vs EIHL- Elite Ice Hockey League comparison

We've been scouting the top leagues in both Finland and the UK for a long time. Our partners insights paired with player testimonials gives us a strong understanding on both leagues.

Liiga

Liiga is the top ice hockey league in Finland.

EIHL- Elite Ice Hockey League

The Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL) is the premier professional hockey league in the United Kingdom, featuring teams from England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Location: Finland

Location: United Kingdom

Skill Level in Liiga

Liiga is the highest professional hockey league in Finland. Founded in 1975, the league has 15 clubs that span from the South near Helsinki all the way up to the Arctic Circle. It's considered by many to be one of the stronger leagues in Europe.

Skill Level in EIHL

Founded back in 2003, the EIHL is the top-level professional hockey league in the UK. Of all the leagues in Europe, the EIHL is one of the toughest physically and resembles much more of a North American style of play due primarily to the fact that most clubs carry a variety of experienced N. American imports each season.

Player Perspective: Liiga

"Liiga is the perfect league to play in, especially as an import from North America who enjoys the physical play paired with skill. I'd agree that Liiga's caliber is up there with a number of the top leagues in Europe based on my experience also playing in Germany and Austria. The fans hear love their hockey.

Player Perspective: EIHL

"As an import, the EIHL was my favorite place to play throughout my pro career. The tough brand of hockey is one I was accustomed to back home in the US. Fans across the league are second to none."

Number of Teams in Liiga: 15

Number of Teams in EIHL: 10

Caliber of Players and Imports in Liiga

Skill level of Liiga players is extremely high, with only the best Finnish players moving up to the highest league. For imports, teams expect players in Europe with strong resumes and players from North America with high-end ECHL/AHL experience on their resumes. Some even have NHL games played. This shows the strength of the league.

Caliber of Players and Imports in EIHL- Elite Ice Hockey League

For many years, the EIHL has attracted quality import players from North America and other parts of Europe. Look at most rosters and you'll find imports with a mix of NHL/AHL/ECHL (or European elite equivalent) playing experience. This alongside the top UK players has continued to elevate the caliber of play in the league to where it is today.