Latvian second division season finale: three-way battle for a historic promotion spot

8 November 2025 11:01
1 min read
Alģirdas Gražis. Image credit to LFF

The curtain falls today on Latvia’s second-tier football league, as all seven matches of the final round kick off to determine which club will earn promotion to the 2026 Virslīga. Heading into the decisive weekend, three teams remain in contention for the title and the coveted top-flight place.

At the top of the table, Riga Mariners hold the advantage with 58 points, followed closely by Ogre United and JDFS Alberts, both sitting on 55 points. Fittingly, the title decider may come in Rīga, where JDFS Alberts host league leaders Riga Mariners, while Ogre United face a tricky away trip to SC Mārupe.

The scenario is straightforward for the Mariners: any result other than defeat will secure them the First League title and a historic promotion to the Virslīga. Ogre United must win their own match and hope Riga Mariners lose to climb into first place. For JDFS Alberts, the equation is even tougher – they need to beat Riga Mariners by at least three goals and also rely on Ogre United dropping points.

Regardless of the final outcome, one thing is already clear – the Virslīga will welcome a newcomer in 2026. None of the three clubs fighting for promotion have ever played in Latvia’s top division before.

Six of today’s matches will kick off simultaneously at 13:00 Baltic time, while the final game of the season – between Leevon PPK and JFK Ventspils – will take place under the lights at 20:30.

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