Nõmme Kalju FC lifted the A. Le Coq Super Cup after defeating reigning Estonian league champions Tallinna FC Flora 3-1 at Paide Football Hall. A Mattias Männilaan hat-trick proved decisive in a high-intensity final that swung firmly in Kalju’s favor after a second-half red card.
Kalju made a dream start. Just 31 seconds into the match, Kristjan Kask broke down the right flank and delivered a precise cross into the box, where Männilaan finished to give the cup holders an immediate lead. The striker struck again in the 11th minute, converting Nikita Ivanov’s delivery to double the advantage and stun the champions.
Flora responded quickly. In the 15th minute, Rauno Sappinen’s cross found Oscar Pihela, who headed home from close range to reduce the deficit. The match settled into a balanced rhythm after the frantic opening stages, and the halftime whistle arrived with Kalju leading 2-1.
The turning point came nine minutes into the second half. Flora left-back Sander Tovstik committed a late challenge near the corner flag on Daniil Sõtšugov. Referee Martti Pukk showed a straight red card after review, leaving Flora to play the remainder of the match with ten men.
Kalju took control from that moment. In the 65th minute, Ivanov once again delivered into the penalty area, and Männilaan reacted quickest after his initial attempt was saved, finishing on the rebound to complete his hat-trick and seal the 3-1 victory. Flora pushed late on and created chances, but were unable to find a second goal.
For Nõmme Kalju, it was their fifth Super Cup final appearance and only their second triumph in the competition. Flora, who hold the record for most Super Cup titles, were denied the chance to add another.
Both teams now turn their attention to the start of the A. Le Coq Premium Liiga next weekend. Flora will host FC Nõmme United, while Kalju travel to face Tartu JK Tammeka as the domestic league campaign begins.
FC Flora Tallinn vs Nõmme Kalju FC – 1-3 (1-2)
Goals: Pihela 15′ | Männilaan 1′ 11′ 65′
