Liiga Cup Champions Inter Turku Secure Place in Semi-Finals

Inter Turku, the 2024 champions of Finland’s Liiga Cup, are among three teams advancing to the semi-finals, joining HJK Helsinki after finishing at the top of Group A.

HJK had already locked in a semi-final spot earlier in the week, thanks to a convincing 4-0 victory against KTP, with their returning star Teemu Pukki netting two goals.

Inter Turku secured their advancement as the leading two teams in Group A, despite their inactivity during the weekend.

On Sunday, Gnistan needed a win of any kind away at Haka to eliminate Inter Turku on goal difference. Although Joakim Latonen managed to equalise at 2-2 with just under 30 minutes left, the Helsinki side was unable to clinch a late winner.

KTP earned their only three points of the competition with a late goal from Atomu Tanaka on Saturday, defeating Mariehamn 2-1. Mariehamn remains without a point, heading into their final match.

In Group B, Olli Jakonen scored the sole goal in a fiery encounter in Seinajoki, leading VPS to a 1-0 victory over SJK.

This win kept Vaasa’s aspirations for a top-two finish alive, but they required favourable results from other matches.

They were hoping for a misstep from league champions KuPS in their home match against AC Oulu. Their hopes seemed bright when Oulu’s Marokhy Ndione equalised in the 88th minute, negating Agon Sadiku’s earlier goal.

However, in a dramatic turn, Arttu Heinonen scored in the 94th minute, propelling KuPS into the semi-finals and dashing VPS’ and Oulu’s hopes.

Ilves wrapped up first place in Group B, taking more than 70 minutes to break through a stubborn Jaro defence before Lauri Ala-Myllymaki’s strike opened the floodgates. Ilves emerged victorious with a 4-0 scoreline, remaining unbeaten with a total of 13 points, the highest in the 12-team competition.

This Wednesday, Mariehamn will host Haka while Oulu travels to SJK, concluding the group stage as teams vie for the remaining positions.