The Finnish Kolmonen produced one of its most breathless matches of the season on 10 September 2026, as KeuPa came from behind twice to beat FC Vaajakoski II 5-4 in a remarkable nine-goal thriller. The match swung back and forth under the lights, leaving both sets of supporters exhausted by the final whistle.

The tone was set inside the opening exchanges, with KeuPa showing the attacking intent that would define their afternoon. However, FC Vaajakoski II, playing on home ground in their familiar red-and-black stripes, responded with visible energy and repeatedly dragged themselves back into contention. The two sides looked evenly matched in midfield, but it was the final third where the game came alive.

How the game unfolded

KeuPa struck first, only for Vaajakoski II to level quickly through a well-worked move down the right channel. The away side again edged ahead before the home side answered, taking momentum into the interval. If the first half was eventful, the second was chaotic, as defences opened up and both goalkeepers were repeatedly called into action. A flurry of goals either side of the 70th minute made it 4-4, setting up a frantic finale.

Just when it seemed the game would end level, KeuPa found the decisive goal deep into stoppage time, converting from close range after a scramble from a corner. The celebrations from the travelling bench told the story of just how significant the victory was.

Tactical story

Vaajakoski II favoured a high press and tried to control possession through a compact diamond midfield. KeuPa, by contrast, preferred to sit slightly deeper and break quickly. This approach created space on the transitions, and it was KeuPa's sharpness in those moments that ultimately made the difference. The match emphasised the importance of game management in Finnish regional football, with the away side showing greater composure in the dying minutes.

Key moments

• KeuPa took the lead with a well-placed finish from the edge of the box.
• Vaajakoski II equalised with a header from a set piece.
• A second-half penalty looked to have swung momentum toward the home side.
• The late corner-kick scramble produced the dramatic winner for KeuPa.

What this means

A victory of this nature gives KeuPa a valuable boost in the Kolmonen standings, adding three points to their tally while also showcasing their goal-scoring power. For FC Vaajakoski II, the result is a bitter blow after such an energetic display, but the resilience shown will give them reason to believe they can climb the table in the coming weeks. Matches like this are a reminder of the unpredictability that makes the Kolmonen such an entertaining competition.