HIFK – FC Haka juniors 3–1 (2–0), aggregate 7–2
HIFK achieved its main goal of the season by securing promotion to Kakkonen, the fourth highest division of Finnish football. In front of 1,426 spectators at Brahenkenttä, the home side defeated FC Haka juniors 3–1 in the second leg of the promotion playoff, completing a 7–2 aggregate victory. The win capped off a perfect year for HIFK, which also included the Third Division group title and the Regions’ Cup championship.
The perfect start
The match began in ideal fashion for HIFK. After just two minutes, Antti Ulmanen broke through the defence and fired on goal. Haka goalkeeper Kasper Silen saved, but Aleksi Wahlman reacted first to slot in the rebound and make it 1–0.
HIFK quickly took control of the game. Midfielders Eetu Puro and Arttu Auranen dictated the tempo, while Erikson Carlos provided constant danger down the left wing. In the 10th minute, Carlos struck the crossbar – a sign of the pressure the home side was building.
Ulmanen strikes again
On 30 minutes, HIFK doubled the lead. Season top scorer Antti Ulmanen turned inside the box and fired a precise shot into the bottom corner, putting HIFK firmly in command at 2–0 and 6–1 on aggregate.
Haka’s best moments came near the end of the first half, when Elias Mattila had two shooting chances, but goalkeeper Sam Jammeh stood firm and ensured HIFK’s two-goal advantage at the break.
Haka’s response and red control
Early in the second half, Mattila pulled one back with a fine finish to make it 2–1. Any hopes of a Haka comeback, however, ended when Olavi Haikka received his second yellow card and was sent off in the 65th minute.
With a man advantage, HIFK calmly managed the remainder of the match – controlling possession, closing down spaces, and limiting Haka’s attacking options.
Carlos seals promotion
In stoppage time, Eriksson Carlos put the finishing touch on HIFK’s promotion. Cutting inside from the left, he fired a well-placed shot into the net for 3–1, sparking celebrations across Brahen kenttä.
After the final whistle, players, staff and supporters shared an emotional moment on the pitch. It was a fitting end to a memorable season that restored HIFK to national-level football.
Match details
HIFK – FC Haka juniors 3–1 (2–0)
Aggregate 7–2 to HIFK
Goals:
2’ Wahlman 1–0
30’ Ulmanen 2–0
57’ Mattila 2–1
90+2’ Carlos 3–1
Red card: Olavi Haikka (Haka, 65’)
Attendance: 1,426 (Brahen kenttä)
A season to remember
HIFK’s promotion crowns a season of unity and success – on and off the pitch. With strong performances throughout the campaign and unwavering support from the fans, “The Star-chested” earned their promotion in what is hopefully a first of many as a supporter-owned team.