EPS (w) 2–1 Kiffen W
Finnish Women’s Ykkonen – 1 July 2026

EPS (w) edged out a resilient Kiffen W side 2‑1 in the Finnish Women’s Ykkonen, securing a vital home victory that keeps their promotion hopes alive. A goal in each half proved just enough after Kiffen pulled one back early in the second period.

Match Overview

At the Esport Arena in Espoo, EPS started brightly and took a deserved lead midway through the first half. Kiffen W responded well after the break but could not find an equaliser after reducing the deficit. EPS defended stoutly in the closing stages to hold on for three points.

Key Moments

• 23' – Goal! EPS forward Sanna Aaltonen finishes a flowing team move from the edge of the box – 1‑0.
• 45' – Kiffen W’s goalkeeper Laura Mäkinen makes a fine save to keep the score at 1‑0.
• 52' – Goal (Kiffen)! A free‑kick from midfielder Emma Söderström sneaks into the bottom corner – 1‑1.
• 67' – Goal! EPS captain Jenni Koivisto restores the lead with a powerful header from a corner – 2‑1.
• 83' – Kiffen W miss a gilt‑edged chance when striker Hanna Laine shoots wide from six yards.
• 90+3' – EPS goalkeeper Tiina Räsänen makes a crucial save to preserve the lead.

Tactical Story

EPS set up in a 4‑3‑3, looking to control midfield through a trio of hard‑working central players. Kiffen W answered with a 4‑4‑2 that tried to hit on the counter. The home side’s extra quality in wide areas – particularly via winger Aaltonen – created the majority of their dangerous moments. Kiffen’s equaliser came from a set‑piece, but they struggled to create sustained pressure from open play.

Standout Players

• Sanna Aaltonen (EPS) – scored one, assisted another, and was a constant threat.
• Jenni Koivisto (EPS) – the captain’s decisive goal and leadership at the back were key.
• Emma Söderström (Kiffen) – her well‑taken free‑kick briefly gave her side hope.

Season Impact

The win moves EPS (w) into the top four of the Ykkonen women’s table, just three points off the promotion places. Kiffen W, meanwhile, drop to ninth and face a battle to avoid the relegation zone. EPS will look to build on this momentum when they face title‑contenders FC Honka (w) next week.