Finland defeat rivals Sweden in Abu Dhabi to snap losing streak

Finland ended their three game losing streak in Abu Dhabi on Monday night, defeating rivals Sweden thanks to a goal by Riku Riski.

Finland's Riku Riski is congratulated by team-mates after scoring the winning goal against Sweden at Zayed Sports City on January 19, 2015. AFP/STR

The National staff

Jan 20, 2015

Finland ended their three game losing streak in Abu Dhabi on Monday night, defeating rivals Sweden thanks to a goal by Riku Riski.

Contesting the friendly at Zayed Sports City, Sweden entered the game as the in-form team, losing just once in their last five outings, while Finland were seeking a first victory since October.

After a goalless first-half, Rosenborg forward Riski grabbed the only goal of the game in the 62nd minute to earn Finald bragging rights over their Scandinavian rivals.

Finald will next face Yemen later this month before contesting European Championship qualifiers in March against Northern Ireland, followed by Hungary and Greece.

Next up for Sweden will be Moldova in the European Championship qualifiers in March for taking on Iran and Norway in friendlies.