HPS II Women 3–2 Honka Espoo (W) Team B
Finnish Women's Ykkonen – July 19, 2026, 19:00

Match Overview

HPS II Women edged Honka Espoo (W) Team B 3-2 in a thrilling encounter in the Finnish Women's Ykkonen on Sunday. The match featured five goals, a red card, and late drama as the home side held on for a vital victory.

First Half: Goals Galore

The game exploded into life in the opening 20 minutes. Honka Espoo took an early lead in the 8th minute when forward Tiina Salo finished a well-worked team move. HPS II responded quickly, equalising through a deflected shot from midfielder Anna Kivelä in the 14th minute.

The home side then took the lead for the first time in the 22nd minute. Striker Mira Lehtinen capitalised on a defensive error to slot home. Honka Espoo refused to back down and levelled again just before the half-hour mark. A corner was met by defender Sanna Virtanen, whose header made it 2-2 in the 28th minute.

Second Half: HPS II Hold On

HPS II regained the advantage in the 56th minute. A rapid counter-attack ended with winger Emmi Rantanen cutting inside and firing a low shot into the bottom corner to make it 3-2.

The match took another twist in the 71st minute when Honka Espoo were reduced to ten men after a second yellow card for midfielder Laura Mäntylä. Despite the numerical advantage, HPS II could not add to their lead and had to withstand late pressure. The home defence held firm to secure the win.

Key Moments

• Early exchanges: Four goals in the first 28 minutes set the tone for an open game.
• Red card: Honka's Mäntylä was sent off for a late challenge, hampering the visitors' chances of a comeback.
• Resilient defence: HPS II’s back line, led by captain Katja Korhonen, made crucial blocks and clearances in the final 20 minutes.

Standings Update

With the win, HPS II Women climbed into the top half of the Ykkonen table, while Honka Espoo (W) Team B slipped closer to the relegation zone. The result keeps the league race wide open.