Finland beat Slovenia 1-0 to record their first victory in 2013 UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifying Group 2.

Having kicked off their campaign with a goalless draw against Malta in June, Finland now have four points to their name. Lauri Dalla Valle was their match-winner in Pori, converting a penalty after ten minutes.

The decisive spot kick came after Petteri Pennanen was felled by Nejc Mevlja, Fulham FC prospect Dalla Valle making no mistake having been told to retake his initial effort. Slovenia begun to assert their authority as Mika Laurikainen's team tired in the second half but were unable to find a way past Saku-Pekka Sahlgren.

Finland are level with Malta at the top of Group 2, a point clear of third-placed Slovenia. Action in the section recommences on 1 September, when Lithuania host Sweden and Slovenia play Malta.