Tallinn Derby Brings Painful 1–3 Defeat for Levadia

Today, on September 17, the big Premium Liiga round 27 derby between FCI Levadia and FC Flora ended in a 1–3 defeat for Levadia in front of the home crowd. The rematch – and at the same time the last league derby of the season – will be played in just a week, on September 24.

Line-up: Karl Andre Vallner (GK), Michael Schjønning-Larsen, Mark Oliver Roosnupp, Rasmus Peetson (c), Bubacarr Tambedou, Brent Lepistu, Mihkel Ainsalu, Til Mavretic, Richie Musaba, Victory Iboro, and Joao Pedro.

The match started poorly for Levadia – Flora opened the scoring already in the 2nd minute. Despite Levadia’s energetic response and active search for an equalizer, Flora struck again shortly after, converting from a corner. The scoreboard showed 0–2.

In the 18th minute, Levadia was forced into an early substitution when injured Brent Lepistu was replaced by Tanel Tammik.

Towards the end of the first half, Levadia managed to reduce the deficit: Joao Pedro’s individual brilliance made it 1–2 and breathed new life into the team. Statistically, the first half belonged to Levadia – 54% possession, 7–2 shots, 6–3 corners. However, Flora made their chances count, while Levadia failed to do so.

The second half continued as an intense battle, but the turning point came in the 66th minute when Victory Iboro received his first yellow card. In the 75th minute, he was shown a second, which meant a red card and left Levadia a man down. The foul that led to his first booking also awarded Flora a penalty, which they calmly converted to make it 1–3.

Levadia fought until the end and created numerous chances – finishing with 16 shots (Flora 5) and 13 corners (Flora 3). But lack of clinical finishing proved costly, and Flora secured a 3–1 win at full time.

The Premium Liiga continues for Levadia in round 28 with an away match against Nõmme Kalju FC. Then, just a week later on September 24, another big Tallinn derby with Flora awaits. Now every match is like a final – every point can prove decisive in the title race.

Thank you to our passionate fans for your support!

Photo: Katariina Peetson / jalgpall.ee