“I feel sad about what happened to Kasper,” Viljami Sinisalo

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The Celtic Star

·30 March 2026

“I feel sad about what happened to Kasper,” Viljami Sinisalo

Celtic goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo has voiced his backing for club teammate Kasper Schmeichel while away on international duty with Finland…

The Finnish shot-stopper has stepped up in recent months, making the most of increased opportunities between the sticks

Despite his own progress, Sinisalo admitted he has sympathy for his teammate Schmeichel, describing the situation as “sad” while also revealing he has received guidance from Celtic staff during the international break.

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Finland’s current schedule has taken them far from home, with the squad travelling over 11,000 miles to continue their preparations. They remain in Auckland ahead of a fixture against Cape Verde this morning.

Viljami Sinisalo of Finland looks on during the FIFA Series match between New Zealand All Whites and Finland at Eden Park on March 27, 2026 in Auckland, New Zealand. (Photo by Phil Walter/Getty Images)

While several nations prepare for this summer’s World Cup, Finland will not be involved after finishing behind Poland and the Netherlands in their qualifying group.

The 24-year-old said via The Herald: “I feel sad about what happened to Kasper. The situation is not nice. I hope it’s not a career-ending thing.”

“I’ve always wanted to play. When the moment comes, you have to perform and keep the shirt. A goalkeeper is only as good as his last match.”

Kasper Schmeichel, Stevie Woods and Viljami Sinisalo of Celtic. Stuttgart v Celtic, UEFA Europa League, Knockout Round Play Offs, Second Leg, Football, MHP Arena, Stuttgart, Germany – 26 Feb 2026Stuttgart MHP Arena Germany Photo James Marsh IMAGO Shutterstock

Reflecting on the occasion, the goalkeeper spoke about the unique experience of playing on the other side of the world and the challenges that come with such long-distance international fixtures.

Sinisalo added: “I feel very proud and honoured to play against New Zealand. I was told I would play the day before. I have to be honest, travelling the long distance hasn’t felt any different personally. It’s fine.”

“The flight was long, but both Celtic and the Football Association told me how to approach the flight, to be in the best possible condition when I arrived.”

“You had to do the things that needed to be done. Whether it was with sleep or making sure your body has enough water. Everything was fine and we have prepared well. There were no problems personally.”

Conor Spence

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