Nordic Football News

FC Inter – VPS

I am just about to hop on the VPS bandwagon. They scored two goals against RoPS on Sunday, a rare treat for their fans, and rumours are circulating that the central market place in Vaasa has already been booked for VPS’ title celebrations in October.

Still, Inter are too strong for the Ostrobothnian side. They had most of the possession against Haka last Saturday, but poor finishing and Haka’s resolute defending cost Inter the game. They are unlikely to fail against VPS though. Their quality will generate enough chances to overcome their opponents, provided their finishing is improved from last week. VPS might secure a surprise draw if they set up the barricades, but a win is too much to hope for.

Inter are missing Pablo Gomez-Marttila while Pekka Kainu and Jussi Äijälä are doubtful for VPS.

HJK – Tampere United

HJK are improving, and Medo and Paulus Roiha are returning from suspensions. Their attacking force greatly overpowers TamU’s, as HJK have scored 19 goals against TamU’s 5. Furhermore, TamU are still in some turmoil. On Monday last week, the club announced a press release asking for the end of controversy around the club, a clear indication that the situation is still unstable. They have taken two consecutive wins, but HJK’s better form makes TamU the underdogs.

Cheyne Fowler and Tuomas Haapala are out for HJK, TamU are missing Mikko Kavén, Tomi Petrescu and Toni Järvinen.

Home win

KuPS – TPS

TPS are steadily finding themselves, and if they produce the kind of display they put on against IFK Mariehamn on Sunday, they are too strong for KuPS. Their finishing has been letting them down, as head coach Pasi Rautiainen pointed out in no uncertain terms after the goalless IFK Mariehamn game, and if the situation is preserved, it could be on obstacle on TPS’ way to victory tonight. They can build up the play nicely and create chances, so it is all up to capitalising on the opportunities.

KuPS are missing Joni Nissinen, Jussi Kolari and Jesse Miettinen. TPS’ Mika Ääritalo played an hour on Wednesday in Kakkonen’s ÅIFK’s loss to LoPa, but he is not yet involved in the TPS squad.

Away win