PPJ vs Reipas - Kakkonen - Lohko A

The Kakkonen - Lohko A returns to the home ground on May 22, 2026, where PPJ and Reipas will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. The left-back was taken off in the final minutes against Everton with cramp, and was not risked for the Champions League clash vs Sabah on Thursday.

Both PPJ and Reipas will be eager to build momentum when they meet in Kakkonen - Lohko A. PPJ have blown hot and cold, LWDLL across their last five and a win rate of 27.78% that leaves room for improvement. The visitors have been hard to predict on their travels, LLLWW in their last five reflecting a win rate of 38.89%. Goals could be in short supply or plentiful — PPJ average 1.83 per game to Reipas's 1.94, and that gap may dictate the rhythm of the contest. A young right-back is another position City are interested in adding in, while, in terms of outgoings, goalkeeper James Trafford is close to joining Leeds so will need to be replaced.

Stylistically, this is a compelling matchup. PPJ favour a patient, possession-based approach, whereas Reipas are at their most dangerous when allowed to hit quickly on the counter. Schalke had only 17 per cent of the possession but, having visited the club to interview their charismatic coach Miron Muslic, that is hardly a surprise.

Individual moments of quality could tip the balance. Both sides possess players capable of producing something out of nothing, and a single flash of brilliance may be all that separates them. Whoever wins the individual duel between the two sides' chief playmakers is likely to dictate the rhythm and, ultimately, the destination of the points. The Premier League champions have been looking for a new defender with William Saliba out for an extended period of time and Jurrien Timber also sidelined with a long-term groin problem.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. With the sides so closely matched, a 2-2 stalemate looks the most likely way this one ends. Whatever the outcome, the Kakkonen - Lohko A fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. 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.