FC Kuressaare 5–1 Tartu Welco II: Estonian Cup Dominance on Display

FC Kuressaare delivered a commanding performance in the Estonian Cup, dismantling Tartu Welco II with a 5–1 victory on July 24, 2026. The match, held at Kuressaare linnastaadion, saw the top-flight side assert their quality from the outset, progressing comfortably to the next round of the knockout competition.

Match Overview

Kuressaare, who compete in the Premium Liiga, were heavy favorites against Tartu Welco II, a reserve team from the lower divisions. The home side wasted little time in taking control, with an early goal setting the tone for a one-sided affair. By halftime, Kuressaare had already built a 3–0 lead, effectively ending any hopes of an upset. Tartu Welco II managed a consolation goal in the second half, but Kuressaare responded with two more strikes to seal a comprehensive victory.

Key Moments

• First Half Blitz: Kuressaare’s attacking trio found space behind the Welco defense, netting three goals inside the opening 35 minutes. The first came from a well-worked corner routine, followed by a clinical counterattack and a long-range effort.
• Welco’s Brief Resurgence: Early in the second half, Tartu Welco II pulled one back through a set-piece header, briefly giving their traveling supporters hope of a comeback.
• Kuressaare Seal the Win: The home side quickly restored their three-goal cushion, adding a fourth from a penalty and a fifth from a swift breakaway, demonstrating their depth and fitness advantage.

Tactical Story

Kuressaare manager Roman Kozhukhovsky deployed a 4-3-3 formation, using width to stretch the Welco defense. The midfield trio controlled possession, allowing full-backs to push high and deliver crosses. Tartu Welco II, organized in a 5-4-1 block, struggled to contain the movement of Kuressaare’s forwards, who frequently swapped positions. The visitors’ only real threat came from set pieces, where their physicality caused occasional problems.

Standout Players

• Kuressaare’s number 10 (player name not available) was instrumental, scoring one goal and providing two assists, constantly finding pockets of space between the lines.
• Kuressaare’s left-back delivered overlapping runs that created several chances, including the assist for the opening goal.
• For Tartu Welco II, the central defender who scored the consolation goal was a rare bright spot, making several last-ditch tackles as well.

Cup Context

The Estonian Cup is the premier knockout tournament in Estonian football, featuring teams from all levels of the pyramid. For FC Kuressaare, this victory continues their pursuit of silverware after a solid domestic campaign. Tartu Welco II, as a reserve side, gained valuable experience against top-tier opposition. The result sets up a potential quarterfinal clash with another Premium Liiga side, as Kuressaare look to add to their trophy cabinet.

The 5–1 scoreline reflects a dominant display, but the match also highlighted areas for improvement—Kuressaare will need to tighten up defensively against stronger opponents. For now, though, they march on in the Estonian Cup.