The race for the 2025 Veikkausliiga crown remains fiercely competitive with five clubs still in contention, but reigning champions HJK Helsinki suffered a major blow after a 3-1 defeat to league leaders KuPS. Meanwhile, FC Inter Turku snapped a poor run to reinforce their pursuit, while other hopefuls like SJK continue to push for European spots.
KuPS Assert Dominance Over HJK to Extend Championship Lead
KuPS entered their clash against HJK determined to bounce back after an underwhelming midweek performance against Ilves. Their efforts paid off early as Otto Ruoppi struck a stunning long-range goal in the 17th minute, curling the ball into the top corner and setting the tone.
HJK responded immediately after halftime with Teemu Pukki orchestrating a chance that Jere Kallinen converted with a precise finish from the edge of the box, briefly leveling the score. However, KuPS quickly regained the advantage when Piotr Parzyszek converted a penalty earned following a reckless challenge on Bob Armah by HJK goalkeeper Ricardo Friedrich. Parzyszek’s goal marked his sixth in six consecutive matches across all competitions.
In the dying moments, Paulo Ricardo provided the assist for Agon Sadiku’s goal, sealing a vital 3-1 victory for KuPS. This result leaves HJK struggling in fifth place, 10 points adrift of the summit and still seeking their first Championship Group win after five attempts.
FC Inter Turku Revive Title Challenge with Crucial Win Over Ilves
Inter Turku’s title hopes looked bleak after securing just one point from three recent matches, but they revitalized their campaign with a dramatic 2-1 victory against Ilves, who slipped to third on goal difference.
Despite Joona Veteli giving Ilves the lead from the penalty spot before halftime, Dimitri Legbo’s brace in quick succession late in the game turned the tide in Inter’s favor. The win moves Inter within four points of KuPS, with a crucial game in hand still to play.
Ilves, who have also played an extra match, are losing momentum after managing just two points in their last four outings.
SJK Keep Pressure On with Thrilling Win Over Gnistan
SJK remain in the hunt for European qualification, sitting six points behind KuPS but with a game in hand after a thrilling 4-3 away victory against Gnistan, their third consecutive win.
The match swung dramatically with Rachide Gnanou equalizing and then putting Gnistan ahead early in the second half. However, Kasper Paananen’s quick brace and goals from Alenis Vargas and Valentin Gasc turned the scoreline in favor of SJK. Although Gnistan’s Saku Heiskanen pulled one back late on, SJK held on to secure the win.
This defeat confirms Gnistan’s position at sixth, unable to challenge higher in the standings.
