Veikkausliiga: KuPS and Ilves Battle to 1-1 Draw

Ilves' winning streak snapped as KuPS secures late equalizer

KuPS secures a late equalizer to hold Ilves to a draw. Ilves' winning streak is snapped as KuPS earns a hard-fought 1-1 draw in Veikkausliiga.

Conceding the goal seemed to spark KuPS, who became more creative and determined in their attack...

KuPS and Ilves battled to a 1-1 draw in a crucial Veikkausliiga match, keeping KuPS one point ahead of Ilves at the top of the table. Maksim Stjopin scored for Ilves in the 54th minute, but Piotr Parzyszek equalized for KuPS in the 81st minute, securing a valuable point for the visitors.

The draw maintains KuPS' unbeaten run, extending it to four matches. Ilves, on the other hand, has now gone three matches without a win, leaving them vulnerable to being pushed down to third place if Inter Turku secures a win in their upcoming match.

KuPS' recent form has been impressive, with Piotr Parzyszek continuing his goal-scoring streak. The team has picked up two wins on the bounce, showcasing their determination to retain their title. With several key matches ahead, KuPS will be keen to maintain their momentum and stay ahead of the competition.

Ilves johtoon kotona! Ja millä maalilla 😮‍💨🔥#TältäTuntuu #Veikkausliiga pic.twitter.com/Pd6pcRmRkj

— Veikkausliiga (@Veikkausliiga) October 16, 2025

The match's dynamics shifted dramatically nine minutes into the second half when Ilves took the lead. Tatu Miettunen set up Maksim Stjopin, who cut inside from the right flank and curled the ball past goalkeeper Aatu Hakala with a precise shot, marking his second goal in three appearances.

The goal sparked a change in momentum, allowing Ilves to take control and create scoring opportunities. The home team's earlier dominance in possession and shots finally translated into a tangible advantage on the scoreboard.

Conceding the goal seemed to spark KuPS, who became more creative and determined in their attack. Their efforts paid off nine minutes from time when Otto Ruoppi's pass found Piotr Parzyszek, who scored his seventh goal in KuPS' last eight matches, salvaging a draw for the visitors.

The late equalizer extended KuPS' unbeaten run to four matches, keeping them a point ahead of Ilves at the top of the table. However, Ilves' failure to win their third consecutive match has raised concerns, and they could drop to third place if Inter Turku secures a win against them on Sunday.

The upcoming fixtures will be crucial for both teams, with KuPS facing HJK and Ilves taking on Inter Turku. KuPS will aim to further solidify their lead, while Ilves will need a win to regain momentum and stay in contention.