Crested Cranes captain Violah Nambi scored her first goal for Åland United as the Finnish side defeated HPS Helsinki 3-2 in a tightly contested Kansallinen Liiga match on Saturday, April 26, 2025.
Nambi, who recently joined Åland United from Italian side Napoli, found the back of the net in the 66th minute, giving her team a crucial 2-1 lead.
The Ugandan forward showcased her speed and composure, capitalizing on a well-timed pass to slot home her debut goal.
Åland United had earlier taken the lead through a second-minute penalty converted by M. Hagström, but HPS Helsinki quickly equalized in the 10th minute through A. Forstén.
After Nambi’s goal, Åland United appeared to have secured victory, but a late surge from HPS Helsinki tested their resolve.
Anna-Stina Simonen scored for HPS in the 90+2 minute to level the match at 2-2, setting up a tense finish.
However, Silja Jaatinen sealed the win for Åland United with a goal deep into stoppage time at 90+7 minutes.
Despite a spirited performance by HPS Helsinki, Åland United held firm to claim all three points, moving into joint first place in the Kansallinen Liiga standings alongside HJK, PK-35 Vantaa, and VIFK, each with three points after the opening round of matches.
Nambi’s performance earned her recognition as one of the highest-rated players on the field, underlining the immediate impact she has made at her new club.
Speaking after her signing earlier this year, Åland United head coach Daniel Norrmén praised Nambi’s qualities, describing her as “fast, strong in deep runs” and someone who “works tirelessly for the team.” Nambi’s goal and performance against HPS Helsinki proved a strong validation of that assessment.
