LoPa 1–2 GrIFK U23 | Suomen Kolmonen | 12. kesäkuuta 2026

GrIFK U23 secured a hard-fought 2–1 away victory over LoPa at a rain-soaked Ksis-halli on Friday night, boosting their position in the Finnish Kolmonen standings. The young GrIFK side showed composure beyond their years, overturning an early deficit to claim all three points in a match that swung on two moments of quality in the second half.

Match Overview

The encounter started at a high tempo, with LoPa dominating possession in the opening quarter. Their pressure paid off in the 18th minute when a swift counter-attack caught the GrIFK backline off guard, allowing a clinical finish from close range to give the hosts a 1–0 lead. LoPa’s midfield trio looked sharp, dictating play and forcing several saves from GrIFK goalkeeper Eetu Mäkelä.

GrIFK U23, however, grew into the game as the first half progressed. They began to find space on the flanks through winger Santeri Kivimäki, whose pace caused constant trouble. Despite several half-chances, the score remained 1–0 at the break.

Second‑Half Turnaround

GrIFK head coach Jussi Lehtonen made a tactical adjustment at halftime, pushing his full‑backs higher. The change paid dividends immediately. In the 53rd minute, a well‑worked set piece saw defender Samuli Korhonen rise unmarked to head home the equaliser from a corner. The goal lifted the visitors, who began to take control of midfield.

The decisive moment came in the 74th minute. A long ball caught LoPa’s defence sleeping, and striker Joonas Kankaanpää latched onto it, rounded the goalkeeper, and slotted home from a tight angle to make it 2–1. LoPa pushed for an equaliser in the final stages but lacked the cutting edge to break down a resolute GrIFK backline.

Tactical Story

LoPa’s early pressing strategy almost paid off, but their inability to sustain the intensity allowed GrIFK to gradually take over. GrIFK’s young side showed excellent game management, soaking up pressure before striking on the counter. LoPa’s defending from set pieces was a clear weakness, exposed by Korhonen’s goal.

Standout Performers

• Joonas Kankaanpää (GrIFK U23) – The striker worked tirelessly and took his chance superbly. His pace and movement troubled the LoPa defenders all night.
• Samuli Korhonen (GrIFK U23) – Dominant in the air and solid in his defensive duties. His equalising header changed the game’s momentum.
• LoPa’s midfield – Despite the loss, the home side’s central players showed good technique and vision, especially in the first half.

Impact on the Season

The victory lifted GrIFK U23 into mid‑table safety, while LoPa remain in the lower half of the Kolmonen standings. For GrIFK, the win provides valuable momentum ahead of a tough run of fixtures. LoPa will need to address their second‑half lapses if they are to climb away from the relegation zone.