PK-35 Vantaa Women 0–2 Ilves Tampere Women
Kansallinen Liiga – Matchday 12
31 May 2026 – 20:00 local time

Ilves seal comprehensive away win in Vantaa

Ilves Tampere Women delivered a polished away performance to defeat PK-35 Vantaa Women 2–0 at Myyrmäen jalkapallostadion on Sunday. The result strengthened Ilves’ grip on a top-three position, while PK-35 remained rooted in the lower half of the Kansallinen Liiga table.

Match overview

From the opening whistle, Ilves looked the more organised side, pressing intelligently and denying PK-35 any time on the ball. The breakthrough came in the 19th minute when midfielder Ella Mäkelä latched onto a loose ball inside the box and fired low into the corner. PK-35 struggled to create clear chances, with their best effort – a long-range strike from Anna Korhonen – sailing just over the crossbar.

The second half followed a similar pattern. Ilves doubled their lead in the 58th minute through a well-placed header from forward Saara Nieminen following a pinpoint cross from right-back Ida Lehtonen. PK-35 pushed forward in the final quarter but lacked the cutting edge to trouble the Ilves goalkeeper, who remained largely untested.

Tactical story

Ilves’ 4–2–3–1 formation allowed them to control the central areas, with double pivot Katri Kuisma and Emilia Salmi cutting off PK-35’s passing lanes. In contrast, PK-35’s 4–4–2 became disjointed, with the midfield frequently overrun. The visitors’ defensive discipline was key – they allowed no shots on target in the entire match.

Standout performers

• Ella Mäkelä (Ilves) – Scored the crucial opener and dictated play from midfield.
• Ida Lehtonen (Ilves) – Provided the assist for the second goal and was a constant threat down the right.
• Saara Nieminen (Ilves) – A poacher’s finish to seal the points.

Impact on the table

Ilves moved up to third place, now seven points clear of fourth-placed Åland United, while PK-35 Vantaa remained in ninth, dangerously close to the relegation zone. Ilves will aim to continue their climb when they host HJK next week.