IFK Mariehamn, who played in the Veikkausliiga for 19 years, defeated Gnistan 3–0, aiming for their first league promotion.
IFK Mariehamn beat Gnistan 3–0 in the Veikkausliiga qualification and kept their place in the main league. The first leg played at Gnistan’s home ground in Helsinki’s Oulunkylä ended in a goalless draw.
Mariehamn, which celebrated the Finnish championship in 2016, has played in the Veikkausliiga for 19 seasons straight, while Gnistan, which will celebrate its 100th anniversary next year, was aiming for its first promotion to the highest domestic league level.
Åland took the lead in the 40th minute when the ball bounced off a Gnistan defender Konsta Rasimus from the leg To Muhamed Olawalewho placed the ball in the back left corner.
The decision of the match was seen after 72 minutes, when Gnistan, who persistently sought an equaliser Joakim Latonen hit the post and Mariehamn launched a counterattack.
Gnistan’s unlucky warrior Rasimus couldn’t stop Olawale on the wing, who centered the ball To Ariel “Tuco” Ngueukami. Tuco moved the ball For Jamie Hopcuttwho was able to easily place the ball in the right back corner.
In extra time, Gnistan also raised his goalkeeper for a corner kick, and Mariehamn Alvaro Ngamba got through alone, ventilated beforehand and put the ball in the goal.
A little before the final whistle, feelings heated up when the Oulu villagers Armend Kabashi took a straight red for a late tackle.