KuPS vs Lahti - Veikkausliiga

The Veikkausliiga returns to the home ground on May 23, 2026, where KuPS and Lahti will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. Enzo Maresca verdict on Michael Carrick and Manchester United fixture issue - 'you need to adapt'.

The two sides arrive with plenty to prove, and the Veikkausliiga contest at the home ground offers a chance to lay down a marker. KuPS have been picking up results at a respectable clip, LLWDW over their last five with a season win rate of 54.55%. The visitors have been a steady presence on the road, WWLDW in their last five and a campaign win rate of 40.91%. The contrast in attacking output — 1.73 versus 1.18 goals per game — adds an extra layer of intrigue. Adam Bate examines Joao Moutinho's extraordinary longevity as the Braga midfielder turns 40 years old In Portugal, Sporting also dropped points late in the game as they conceded in stoppage time at Famalicao despite the home side being down to 10 men.

Stylistically, this is a compelling matchup. KuPS favour a patient, possession-based approach, whereas Lahti are at their most dangerous when allowed to hit quickly on the counter. Andoni Iraola could not have been clearer about how he plans to change Liverpool when speaking in his opening press conference.

With H. Sjögrell leading the league's scoring charts at 6 goals, the contest is unlikely to be short of attacking intent. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. In Bouaddi, Maresca has found himself a defensive midfielder with very few weaknesses, both a receiver and a carrier.

Without the market to lean on, the contest feels genuinely open — and the outcome may come down to which side handles the occasion better. Neither side holds a clear edge, and a 2-2 draw would be a fitting reflection of the balance between them. The result at the home ground could resonate well beyond matchday in the Veikkausliiga picture. 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.