Finland national football team

Mens national football team.

The Finland national football team, known as Huuhkajat (The Eagle-owls), represents Finland in international football matches. It is governed by the Football Association of Finland, the governing body for football in Finland. The team is a member of UEFA in Europe and FIFA in global competitions. Their colors are white and blue, reflecting the colors of the Finnish flag.

Since joining FIFA in 1908, Finland had never qualified for a major tournament until securing a spot at UEFA Euro 2020. The team made its European Championship debut in 2021, achieving their first victory in a major competition against Denmark. However, they were eliminated in the group stage.

Finland's highest FIFA ranking was 33rd, achieved in March 2007, while their lowest was 110th in July-August 2017. As of October 2024, they are ranked 66th. The team plays its home matches at the Helsinki Olympic Stadium.

Throughout their history, Finland has produced several notable players. Jari Litmanen holds the record for most caps with 137 appearances, while Teemu Pukki is the top scorer with 42 goals. The team has been led by various coaches, with Markku Kanerva currently at the helm.

Finland has achieved some memorable results, including a 1-1 draw against reigning world champions Spain in 2014 World Cup qualifying. They have also shown improvement in recent years, winning their UEFA Nations League C group in 2018-19 and securing promotion to League B.

Despite facing challenges, Finland continues to strive for success on both the European and global stages. Under Kanerva's leadership, the team has undergone a generational shift, introducing younger players to the squad. Finland narrowly missed out on qualification for UEFA Euro 2024, losing in the play-offs to Wales.