SJK vs KuPS prediction 18.07.2026 | Veikkausliiga

SJK return to OmaSP Stadion looking to bounce back from a narrow defeat in their most recent league fixture. Jarkko Wiss’s side slipped to a 1:0 defeat against VPS last time out, with Xavier Odhiambo grabbing the only goal.

A difficult start to the season has seen SJK win just three of 15 league fixtures, leaving the hosts tenth in the Veikkausliiga standings.

SJK’S home form has been especially poor with three successive defeats recorded before a much-needed 3:1 success against TPS in their last runout at OmaSP Stadion.

Defensive issues have also been a concern for SJK. The hosts have conceded 23 goals in the Veikkausliiga this season, while they have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last nine league fixtures. 

Head coach Wiss is likely to make at least one change to his first XI. Oskari Väistö is expected to miss out after being withdrawn before half-time in last week’s defeat at VPS.

KuPS make the trip to Seinajoki in high spirits despite a 3:2 home defeat against Vardar in a Champions League qualification tie earlier this week. 

Miika Nuutinen’s side progressed to the next phase with Piotr Parzyszek’s extra-time penalty securing a 4:3 aggregate victory. 

Domestically, KuPS have been in excellent form, and remain top of the Veikkausliiga despite their recent European exertions. 

The Finnish champions remain tough to beat, with eight wins and six draws picked up from 14 league fixtures this season. The visitors remain ahead of Inter Turku on goal difference only.  

KuPS boss Nuutinen is likely to freshen up his selection this weekend. Saku Savolainen, Saikou Touray and Piotr Parzyszek are all in contention to earn recalls after substitute appearances in KuPS’ midweek European defeat.