Lions Write History with SIFL Cup Victory!
[ SIFL Cup Final ] Shanghai Lions 2–1 ReUnited 🏆
We made history! Our journey to the SIFL Cup Final was nothing short of remarkable. In the quarterfinals, we scraped through against Voodoo with a patched-up squad and a goal by Jack. Then came the semifinal—a masterclass in total football. We dismantled the Shooters 3-0, easily our best game of the season.
The final against ReUnited posed a different challenge. Their trio of fast African forwards caused us problems early on, even costing us Jerome to a pulled hamstring. Thankfully, Fabi stepped in seamlessly. We knew that scoring first was key—we couldn’t afford to open up and let them counter.
Then came the moment: Yohan unleashed a thunderbolt from 30 meters into the top corner. Pure magic. But ReUnited quickly equalized, slicing through our defense, and suddenly our rhythm collapsed. Thankfully, we made it to halftime at 1-1 to regroup.
In the second half, we dominated possession but couldn’t find the net. Two heroic saves from stand-in goalkeeper FL kept us alive. Then in the 89th minute, we got our reward—a scrappy but glorious goal! Lions piled on in celebration, nearly flattening Johnny in the process. Kevin added 6 (!) extra minutes, but we held firm.
SIFL Cup Champions 2011/2012. History made.
After that, the lions enjoyed the SIFL Closing tournament ending-up finalist; to close-u the day with the SIFL Closing Ceremony.
[ SPL Cup Final ] Hawks 1–0 Shanghai Lions
Barely 24 hours later, we were back on the pitch to face the Hawks—a mix of top Chinese talent and slick Brazilians. Fortunately, Nicolas flew in from Singapore to mind the goal.
We played beautifully, especially in the first half, controlling the game with excellent passing. It was a tight battle, and one goal was always going to make the difference.
Unfortunately, they found it—breaking through on our left flank. We pushed hard for the equalizer. Charles and Jeff (!) both had good chances, but we lacked firepower upfront.
Joel, remember to schedule your holidays after the finals next season. In big games like this, that extra spark makes all the difference!
🔚 2011/2012 Season Recap
Despite the heartbreak in the SPL final, it was an amazing year for the Lions:
🏅 SIFL:
- 3rd place
- SIFL Cup 🏆 Champions 2011/2012
- Hebiguchi Cup semifinalist
- Closing Tournament finalist
🏅 SPL:
- 3rd place
- SPL Cup finalist
- SPL Closing Tournament finalist
We welcomed many new players, launched the Young Lions team, and expanded our Lions family. The energy, spirit, and teamwork have never been stronger.
đź’¬ Looking Ahead
Our aim for next season: More trophies. More history.
Senior players, we count on you to pass on experience to the younger generation. They are our future.
âš˝ Offseason Plans
Staying in Shanghai? Join our 7-a-side summer tournament, every Wednesday from June 27 to August 15, featuring 6 other teams.
Enjoy the break—it’s great to be a Lion!
Cheers,
Lions Management
