Levadia’s title hopes fading after another defeat

In the 29th round of Estonia’s Premium Liiga, reigning champions FCI Levadia suffered a painful setback in the title race, dropping crucial points with a 1-2 defeat away to Nõmme Kalju.

This was already the sixth meeting between Kalju and Levadia across competitions this year. Levadia had come out on top in the pre-season Supercup final as well as in two league clashes. Kalju, however, had won both their previous encounters, a 2-0 league victory and the dramatic Estonian Cup final, decided on penalties after a 3-3 draw.

The first half developed into a familiar pattern: Levadia monopolized the ball, while Kalju relied on quick counters. Wendell had the best chance for the visitors after Larsen’s low cross, but Kalju goalkeeper Perk reacted brilliantly. On the other side, Patrikejevs and Siht both found space on the break but couldn’t test Vallner in goal.

Levadia forced several corners but lacked precision in the final third, while Kalju’s compact low block frustrated their attempts. The opening 45 minutes ended goalless, with Levadia holding possession but unable to convert dominance into a breakthrough.

Kalju coach made attacking substitutions, and the game opened up slightly. In the 59th minute, the deadlock was finally broken: Ivanov’s free kick found Kask, who powered in a header from close range. VAR checked for offside, but the goal stood, 1-0 to Kalju.

Levadia struck back quickly. Just minutes later, Wendell delivered an inviting cross, and Joao Pedro was left unmarked to nod in the equalizer from seven meters out. Levadia pushed for a winner, coming agonizingly close when Ainsalu’s clever shot from the edge of the box rebounded off the post.

But disaster struck in the 75th minute: Lepistu caught Siht in the head while contesting a high ball, and the referee pointed to the spot. Ivanov converted, placing the ball beyond Vallner despite the keeper getting a hand to it, 2-1 Kalju.

Levadia looked rattled after conceding. Vallner kept them in the game with several sharp saves from Eyang and Baptista, while Kalju continued to threaten on the break. In stoppage time, Levadia threw everything forward, winning a series of corners. Shots were blocked in frantic goalmouth scrambles, but Kalju held firm. At the final whistle, jubilation erupted for the hosts, who not only deepened Levadia’s autumn crisis but also boosted their own hopes of securing European football.

Nomme Kalju FC vs FCI Levadia – 2:1 (0:0)
Goals: Kask 59′, Ivanov 78′ (Penalty Kick) | Joao Pedro 64′

Premium Liiga Matchday 29:

• 20.09.2025 – Harju JK Laagri vs Paide Linnameeskond – 3:0
• 20.09.2025 – FC Kuressaare vs JK Narva Trans – 0:0
• 20.09.2025 – FC Flora Tallinn vs Tartu JK Tammeka – 2:1
• 21.09.2025 – Nomme Kalju FC vs FCI Levadia – 2:1
• 21.09.2025 – Parnu JK Vaprus vs JK Tallinna Kalev – 17:00