Talvitie strike lifts Finland U19 W past Belgium U19 W
HELSINKI (Interstat) — Finland U19 W defeated Belgium U19 W 1-0 on Thursday as Venla Talvitie scored in the 56th minute. Talvitie’s goal proved enough for the home side, which held the visiting Belgians scoreless. Finland improved to 1-0 in the competition and 1-0 across all competitions. Belgium dropped to 0-1 in the competition and 0-1 overall. The match remained tight, with the only breakthrough coming after halftime. Finland protected its narrow lead through the closing stages and secured the win. Belgium pressed for an equalizer but could not find a response. The result gave Finland a winning start and left Belgium seeking its first victory. Talvitie’s finish was the decisive moment in a game that offered few clear chances. Finland’s defense kept Belgium off the scoreboard, while the home team did enough in attack to claim the result. The contest was played on Thursday, and the outcome favored the host nation. No further goals followed Talvitie’s 56th-minute strike.