Ilves vs IFK Mariehamn Prediction: Both sides are back on their feet

The upcoming match between FC Ilves and IFK Mariehamn in the Finland Veikkausliiga competition is set to take place on 15 July 2023. Both teams will be eager to secure a positive result in this encounter as they aim to climb the league standings and secure important points in the competition. You'll find previews, head-to-head, expert tips, and odds below.

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Ilves have been in good form recently, losing only one of their last 12 matches across all competitions. In their previous match against KTP, they played out a goalless draw despite creating numerous scoring opportunities. With 22 shots and 12 corners, they were unlucky not to find the back of the net. Despite the draw, Ilves will be looking to build on their strong performances and secure a victory in the upcoming match.

Currently, Ilves occupy the 8th position in the league table with 16 points from 14 games. They have scored and conceded 14 goals, highlighting their balanced approach. While they haven't been heavily involved in the transfer window thus far, the team is expected to make additions in the coming weeks to strengthen their squad.

The departure of Najeeb Yakubu, who has returned to Vorskla Poltava after a loan spell, will not have a significant impact on Ilves as he was a rotational player. The team management is likely working on securing new signings to enhance the squad's depth and competitiveness as the season progresses.

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Mariehamn find themselves in a challenging position at the bottom of the league table with only ten points from 14 matches. With 13 goals scored and 21 conceded, their goal difference highlights their struggles. However, there have been some positive signs in their recent performances. They went unbeaten in four consecutive matches before suffering a 2-1 home defeat against Oulu, where a red card in the first half hindered their chances of securing a positive result.

Despite their position in the standings, Mariehamn have shown their ability to compete against strong teams. They notably defeated league leaders KuPS, indicating that they should not be underestimated. The team has made improvements defensively, as demonstrated by their clean sheets in the last two away matches.

Looking ahead, Mariehamn are likely to be proactive in the transfer market in the coming weeks. They will likely seek reinforcements to strengthen the team and improve their chances of securing points and avoiding relegation. It will be crucial for them to continue their defensive improvements while also capitalizing on their scoring opportunities to climb up the table.

In their previous 10 meetings since 2020, Ilves have emerged as the more successful team, securing six victories. Mariehamn, on the other hand, have managed to win three times, while one match ended in a draw. It is worth noting that in the last three encounters between the two sides, both teams have found the back of the net, resulting in BTTS (both teams to score) outcomes.

These statistics suggest that matches between Ilves and Mariehamn have been closely contested, with goals being a common occurrence. Fans can expect an exciting and potentially high-scoring encounter when the two teams face off again.

Both sides seem to have regained their footing, and I expect both sides to find the net in a game that could end in a draw.

• BTTS for 2.00 odds
• X for 3.50 odds
• Under 2.5 for 1.70 odds