---
title: "FK Metta secure immediate return to Latvian Virslīga"
date: 2026-10-24T12:23:07Z
lang: en
author: "Janis Vitols"
canonical: https://balticfootballnews.com/fk-metta-secure-immediate-return-to-latvian-virsliga/
categories: ["Latvia", "Nākotnes līga"]
---

# FK Metta secure immediate return to Latvian Virslīga
**FK Metta have secured an immediate return to the Latvian Virslīga after defeating Leevon/PPK 2-0 to clinch the Latvian First League title with two rounds remaining. Goals from Sellou Jallow and Sadiq Saleh sealed promotion for Andris Riherts’ side, who will return to the top flight in 2027 following their relegation last season.**

Heading into the encounter, Metta held a seven-point advantage over their nearest challengers, Valmiera FC and Leevon/PPK, with three rounds remaining. While victory for Leevon/PPK would have kept their slim title hopes alive, Metta knew that three points would be enough to secure the championship and an automatic return to the Virslīga.

The hosts wasted little time taking control of the match, opening the scoring after just five minutes. Gambian forward Sellou Jallow found the net to give Metta an early advantage and move his side a significant step closer to promotion.

Riherts’ team doubled their lead shortly before half-time, capitalising on a costly defensive mistake by Leevon/PPK. Nigerian striker Sadiq Saleh took full advantage of the error to score his 23rd goal of the season, sending the home supporters into celebration and putting Metta firmly in control.

The hosts had further opportunities to extend their advantage after the break but were unable to add to their tally. Nevertheless, the two-goal cushion proved more than sufficient, with Metta comfortably seeing out the remainder of the contest.

The final whistle sparked celebrations as Metta officially secured the First League championship and promotion to the 2027 Virslīga season, completing their return to the top division at the first attempt.

The achievement marks a swift recovery for the Rīga-based club, whose relegation last season brought an end to an impressive run of 14 consecutive seasons in Latvia’s top flight.

Although the championship has been decided, the battle for second place remains wide open. The runners-up will earn the opportunity to face the ninth-placed Virslīga team in a two-legged promotion/relegation play-off, with three clubs still competing for that position.

Valmiera FC currently occupy second place with 53 points, level with Leevon/PPK but with a game in hand. Valmiera are scheduled to host JFK Ventspils later on Saturday, giving them an opportunity to establish a three-point advantage over their closest rivals.

Meanwhile, fourth-placed Riga Mariners remain firmly in contention with 50 points and are also in action on Saturday, travelling to face Mārupe in their 24th-round fixture.