The Finnish Kolmonen provided a sensational 4-3 thriller as LPS Helsinki edged FC Kontu in a goal-filled encounter on 26 June 2026. Played at Helsinki's Töölö Stadium with a late evening kick-off at 23:15, the match showcased the attacking flair of both sides and ended with a dramatic stoppage-time winner. The result keeps LPS Helsinki in contention for promotion in the third-tier league.

Match Overview

From the outset, this was a game where defences took a back seat. Both teams adopted an aggressive, high-tempo style, and the scoreline reflected the relentless end-to-end action. LPS Helsinki started brilliantly, racing into a two-goal lead, only for FC Kontu to mount a stunning comeback. But the hosts showed character to snatch victory in the dying moments.

Key Goals

• 8th minute – LPS Helsinki 1-0: Winger Joonas Mäkelä cut inside from the left and unleashed a curling shot that bent away from the keeper.
• 21st minute – LPS Helsinki 2-0: Striker Eero Koskinen pounced on a defensive error and slotted home first-time.
• 34th minute – FC Kontu pull one back: A powerful header from Olli-Pekka Rautiainen from a corner gave Kontu hope.
• 45+1 minute – FC Kontu equalise: A swift counter was finished by Antti Kuusela, who chipped the onrushing keeper.
• 55th minute – FC Kontu take the lead: Rautiainen struck again, this time with a volley from 12 yards, making it 3-2.
• 72nd minute – LPS Helsinki equalise: Substitute Niko Virtanen fired home from a tight angle after a goalmouth scramble.
• 90+3 minute – Winning goal: Vihtori Salonen connected with a cross to head the ball into the bottom corner, sparking wild celebrations.

Tactical Notes

LPS Helsinki's 4-2-3-1 allowed them to overload the midfield in the opening half, but their defensive fragility was exposed once FC Kontu switched to a more direct style after the break. The visitors used the pace of Mikko Saarinen on the wing to stretch the LPS backline. Ultimately, it was set pieces and individual errors that decided the outcome — both sides need to tighten up if they harbour serious promotion ambitions.

Standout Players

Vihtori Salonen (LPS Helsinki) – The midfielder's tireless running was rewarded with the winner. For FC Kontu, Olli-Pekka Rautiainen was immense, scoring twice and causing problems all night. Antti Kuusela also impressed with his clever movement and composure in front of goal.

League Context

The victory lifts LPS Helsinki to fourth place in the Kolmonen standings, two points behind the promotion playoff positions. FC Kontu fall to seventh but remain within touching distance of the top half. With both teams averaging over three goals per game this season, their matches are becoming must-watch events for neutral fans.