Finland came from a goal down to defeat 10-man Albania 2-1 and move top of Group C1 in the UEFA Nations League at the Helsinki Olympic Stadium.
Albania made a bright start and took the lead in the fourth minute through Rey Manaj, who headed Kristjan Asllani’s near-post delivery into the far corner.
The visitors’ advantage was cut short in the 22nd minute when goalkeeper Etrit Berisha was sent off after bringing down Daniel Hakans on the edge of the box after giving away possession.
Finland immediately capitalised from the resulting free-kick, with substitute goalkeeper Alen Sherri unable to keep out Leo Walta’s low effort as the hosts levelled.
Despite having the numerical advantage, Finland struggled to dominate before the break, with Joel Pohjanpalo’s header their clearest opportunity.
Finland continued to press after the restart and eventually completed the comeback through Walta, who curled another free-kick beyond Sherri to put the hosts ahead.
Albania pushed forward in search of an equaliser late in the game, but Finland goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky stood firm, including racing off his line to deny Mirlind Daku.
The victory moved Finland to seven points from three matches, while Albania suffered their first defeat in three games and conceded their first two goals of the Nations League campaign.
