Forsell’s late goal sends KTP up in training shoes

KTP secured promotion to Finland’s top-flight Veikkausliiga with a 1-1 draw against Mikkelin Palloilijat, thanks to a last-minute equaliser by Petteri Forsell, Yle reported. The forward scored in training shoes after forgetting one of his football boots at home.

KTP needed one point to secure promotion. Forsell said he was confident the team would score during the match, adding that KTP had been “a little better than the opposition” throughout the season.

Forsell is known for long-range shots, and his decisive goal came from distance. He said he might find a scrappier goal from close range more satisfying, but called his strike a superb shot.

One of Forsell’s playing boots had been left at home in a cupboard while it was being glued. When the team went out for its warm-up, he realised he did not have the second boot and had to play in his training shoes instead.

The training shoes are the same model as his playing boots, but a different colour. Forsell trains in black shoes and plays in white ones. The model dates from 2011, and he said he had bought all the pairs available in an online store. His last pairs are now wearing out and need occasional repairs, so he expects to change models next year.

KTP has moved between the Veikkausliiga and the Ykkösliiga since 2021. The 2027 season will be the Kotka team’s fourth in the top division this decade. It has two Ykkösliiga matches left this season.

Forsell’s celebrations began with a family task. His children had watched the match with their grandfather, and he said he went to change his younger child’s nappy before joining the team.