HJK Helsinki vs VPS - Veikkausliiga

The Veikkausliiga returns to the home ground on July 18, 2026, where HJK Helsinki and VPS will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. The 74-year-old Hoops boss admitted that "it'll be a bit strange not having the (Celtic) fans in but I'm nervously and excitedly looking forward to it; it's a great fixture" and also spoke about the police visit.

Both HJK Helsinki and VPS will be eager to build momentum when they meet in Veikkausliiga. The hosts have been steady if unspectacular, WLWWL in their last five reflecting a win rate of 50%. The visitors have been picking up results steadily, LWLWL over their last five with a campaign win rate of 40.91%. Goals could be in short supply or plentiful — HJK Helsinki average 1.64 per game to VPS's 1.32, and that gap may dictate the rhythm of the contest. The midfielder faces a significant period on the sidelines after being stretchered off during Uruguay's 1-0 defeat to Spain in the recent FIFA World Cup.

How the two sides approach the contest strategically will be key. HJK Helsinki will want to control proceedings in front of their own supporters, while VPS will back themselves to cause problems on the break. Everton are aware of interest from Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal, but there has been no formal approach or contact with them, and they have no appetite to sell the 26-year-old, who has three years on his deal.

Individual quality could tip the balance. The league's leading scorer H. Sjögrell, with 6 goals to his name this season, is a reminder of the firepower on display. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. That was a modest score compared to the seven that Feyenoord racked up at PEC Zwolle but PSV's 4-1 win over Sparta Rotterdam was arguably the most significant.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. Neither side holds a clear edge, and a 2-2 draw would be a fitting reflection of the balance between them. With the standings tight and form on the line, this is a fixture neither side will want to lose. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Liverpool's midfield wasn't great last year but I expect Florian Wirtz to have a better season, 100 per cent.