Latvia’s women suffered a 1-3 defeat away to Finland in their second match of 2027 Women’s World Cup qualifying, but ended the game with a consolation goal that came from sustained late pressure.
Finland, who reached last year’s European Championship finals and sit 23rd in the World Rankings, controlled territory from the opening minutes and had one goal ruled out for offside. Latvia goalkeeper Elza Renāte Strazdiņa was called into action repeatedly, while Olga Ševcova was booked early on and will miss Latvia’s next qualifier.
The hosts took the lead in the 26th minute from a cross finished with a header. Latvia were then forced into a change when Sandra Voitāne went off, with Marina Teļukeviča introduced. Despite Latvia trying to build patiently in possession, Finland doubled their advantage in the 56th minute after a well-worked move, with Rija Elinga scoring for the second time.
Latvia had a chance soon after when a pressing move opened an opportunity for Anastasija Poļuhoviča, but her effort was off target. Finland added a third in the 65th minute, again from a cross.
Latvia finished strongly and reduced the deficit in stoppage time when Gabriela Annija Anderson’s delivery flew into the net for her second international goal. Anderson had also created a late opening for Signija Šenberga, while Diāna Suvitra sent a rebound over as Latvia pushed for another.
Both sides had begun the campaign with defeats on Tuesday, Latvia losing 2-3 in Slovakia and Finland beaten 0-2 in Portugal. Latvia, ranked 107th, are playing at this level for the first time and will continue the group in mid-April with home matches against Portugal and Finland.
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Source: https://lff.lv/zinas/18831/latvijas-izlase-pretojas-parspekam-un-gust-skaistus-vartus/
