JFK Ventspils Edge Out Mārupe 2-1 in Latvian 1.Liga Thriller

Mārupe, Latvia – June 14, 2026 – JFK Ventspils secured a vital 2-1 away victory over Mārupe in the Latvian 1.Liga, courtesy of a second-half winner that broke the home side’s resistance. The result lifts Ventspils into the promotion race while Mārupe slip further into the relegation zone.

Match Overview

The match started at a high tempo, with both teams eager to impose their style. Mārupe took a surprise lead in the 14th minute when striker Artūrs Zotovs latched onto a through ball and slotted past the Ventspils goalkeeper. However, JFK Ventspils responded quickly, equalising just seven minutes later through a powerful header from midfielder Aleksejs Grjaznovs from a corner. The remainder of the first half was evenly contested, with few clear chances.

Key Moments

• 14th minute (1-0): Zotovs finishes clinically to put Mārupe ahead.
• 21st minute (1-1): Grjaznovs’ header restores parity for Ventspils.
• 54th minute: Ventspils hit the post through a long-range effort from Jevgēņijs Kazačoks.
• 72nd minute (1-2): Substitute forward Raimonds Krollis wins it for Ventspils with a close-range finish after a goalmouth scramble.

Tactical Story

JFK Ventspils employed a 4-2-3-1 formation, dominating midfield through their double pivot of Grjaznovs and Kazačoks. Mārupe tried to hit on the counter but lacked the composure to hold onto their lead. After conceding the equaliser, Mārupe dropped deeper, inviting pressure. Ventspils’ persistence paid off with the late winner, as their fresh legs off the bench made the difference.

Standout Players

• Aleksejs Grjaznovs (Ventspils): Scored the equaliser and controlled the midfield battles.
• Raimonds Krollis (Ventspils): Impact substitute with the winning goal.
• Artūrs Zotovs (Mārupe): Gave his team hope with a well-taken opener.

Season Impact

The win moves JFK Ventspils into the top half of the Latvian 1.Liga standings, keeping their promotion ambitions alive. Mārupe, now in the bottom two, must urgently find consistency to avoid relegation to the second tier. Their defensive lapses continue to be a major concern.