Jarkko Wiss Sets Sights on European Challenge After Historic Championship Win
Jarkko Wiss is already redirecting his focus to the European competition set for Thursday, but the elation of winning the Veikkausliiga championship still dances in his thoughts.
Under his stewardship, this marks the first time Wiss has clinched the title as head coach, adding a significant chapter to his already impressive career. Having previously claimed the championship four times as a midfielder with teams such as TPV, HJK, and Tampere United, his recent triumph came through a gripping last-minute victory when SJK’s Kasper Paananen scored in extra time against Ilves.
“I’m trying to collect myself here. This feels overwhelming,” Wiss shared in a heartfelt moment with Iltalehti. With the match concluding in a thrilling 3-3 draw, Wiss’s side, KuPS, enters the final round with a comfortable four-point cushion over their nearest rivals.
Emotion surged through him as he recounted the day’s events from home, where he anxiously followed the match while communicating with his son, who was at the stadium. “I had nearly given up hope and was headed to the bathroom when I heard the incredible news,” he reflected.
Paananen’s goal, a surprise strike in the dying moments of the game, has played on repeat in Wiss’s mind. “I keep rewinding that moment,” he admitted, choking back tears. “My phone has been buzzing endlessly. I’m not going anywhere—I’m glued to this couch.”
A Rollercoaster of Emotions
In the aftermath, Wiss maintained a surprisingly composed demeanor, yet it was clear that the match had taken him on an emotional rollercoaster. “It’s been an extraordinary season for us, even under constant pressure,” he acknowledged. “I’m genuinely thrilled for our players, the staff, and our loyal supporters.”
The road to the championship was paved with hard work and an unwavering spirit, with KuPS finishing the upper series nine points ahead of both Ilves and SJK. While Inter led the regular season, they found themselves trailing in the championship race, further highlighting the resilience of the Yellow Yellows, who secured 20 points over the final stretch with six wins and two draws.
“The foundation of our success has been the relentless effort we’ve put in since December,” Wiss analyzed.
A Momentous Victory
The championship race had been tightly contested, particularly as KuPS surged forward, with their recent victory over Inter solidifying their path to glory. “I wasn’t nervous at all today. I didn’t foresee a 4-4 finish in the Ilves-SJK game, given the quality of both teams,” he mentioned, expressing respect for his opponents. “I believed we would seal the deal today or at the latest on Sunday.”
With their championship secured, KuPS now looks ahead to critical matches, aiming for a spot in the UEFA Conference League. This Thursday, they will take on Slovan Bratislava at the same Tammela stadium that has become a fortress for them.
“Right now, Thursday’s match feels even more critical than Sunday’s celebration,” Wiss noted, revealing his commitment to the challenge ahead. While he awaits clarity about his future with KuPS—where an option for continued service exists but has yet to be formalized—he remains focused on savoring this victorious moment.
“Let’s relish this achievement for now,” Wiss concluded, as he prepared to embrace the next challenge on the horizon.