Finland Wins Third Consecutive U17 Nordic Championship

Finland’s U17 Youth Team Secures Third Consecutive Nordic American Football Championship by Defeating Sweden 20-14 (7-14) in the Final. Denmark claimed third place in the tournament.

Finland’s young team started nervously in their title defense, trailing Sweden 7-14 at halftime. However, two touchdowns early in the third quarter clinched the championship for the Lions.

At the end of the game, Sweden had a chance to come from behind after Finland fumbled, giving the ball to the home team with 1:21 remaining on the clock. Sweden’s attempt to tie the game ended unsuccessfully when Finland’s defensive back Jyri Jääskä intercepted Sweden’s quarterback in the game’s final moments.

Finland’s touchdowns were scored by running backs Noel Rajala and Konsta Mäenpää, as well as wide receiver Joona Tuominen. Finland’s Iiro Irmola was named the game’s MVP, while Sweden’s best player was running back Ludvig Lindholm.

Head coach J-P Kuusisto shared that the team’s mental resilience was the biggest factor that separated the champions from the silver medalists:

”It was an exciting game, as expected. We had to work a lot on the mental side with the boys at halftime. But that’s one of this team’s strengths. We’ve practiced mental skills and emotional control in various situations, which really showed in the second half when we turned the game in our favor. These kinds of games are exactly why we do this.”

According to Kuusisto, quarterback Aleksi Peltokangas played a crucial role with his leadership, especially in the closing moments of the game. Among the defensive players, Kuusisto highlighted linebacker Roope Nieminen, who directed the box and led the entire defense.

The U17 Nordic Championship has been held nine times since 2008, with Finland’s youth team winning the title six times.

Photo: Mikko Vento