Lions Hold Shanghai DIB in Thrilling Title Clash

🔥 [ SIFL ] Shanghai Lions 2–2 D.I.B. FC

This was the biggest game of the season for the Lions. Our closest rival, Shanghai DIB, needed a win to stay in the SIFL title race. We had done our homework — having watched them closely — and came in with a tactical plan. But as DIB warmed up, it was clear they had assembled one of the strongest lineups in Shanghai.

Our approach was simple: stay calm, stay composed. With an 8-point lead at the top, the pressure was squarely on DIB, not on us.

🎬 Key Moments

Only five minutes in, DIB striker Didier Njewel, a former pro with Shanghai East Asia FC (former name of Shanghai SIPG), flew theatrically over Felipe’s leg in the box. No contact was made, and no penalty given — a wake-up call for us nonetheless.

Shortly after, we broke on a counter. Jérôme’s shot fell to Romain, who mis-hit it. But DIB’s defender inexplicably passed it back to him… and this time, he didn’t miss. 1-0 Lions!

DIB responded almost immediately, scoring off a corner at the near post to level the score.

In the second half, we took control. Our fitness was clearly superior, and DIB looked like they were playing not to lose rather than going for the win.

Enter Jonny O., who had vomited during warm-up, but came on to change the game. He dribbled past two defenders and served a pinpoint left-footed cross to Man of the Match Dani, who headed home into the top corner. 2-1 Lions with 15 minutes to go!

Unfortunately, in injury time, we conceded off a poorly defended DIB free kick. Final score: 2-2.

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🧠 Lessons & Positives

Despite the late equalizer, we were the better team, and showed maturity and composure throughout. Special mention to goalkeeper Dimitri, who had an outstanding performance.

We’re now 8 points clear of both DIB and the Shooters, with just 4 games left. Our +23 goal difference over DIB could prove decisive. Two more wins would secure our first SIFL title — but we’re aiming for a full undefeated season!

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🥓 Post-Match & What’s Next

Post-game, the Lions regrouped at Bloc for brunch. Shoutout to Dani for the food tips and to Charles and Chris for organizing the next poker night.

But the mood remained humble. No premature celebrations.
Our next clash is against FC Oranje — nothing but a win will do.

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⚽ [ SPL ] FC Flamenkos 0–5 Shanghai Lions

Sunday brought more Lions success — albeit in unusual circumstances.

Late Saturday, the Flamenkos captain called to forfeit due to a lack of players. We couldn’t afford to miss a match this late in the SPL race, so we organized an intrasquad game, keeping it under wraps to avoid premature partying.

18 Lions turned up, and we ran a solid training match. That night, we were awarded a 5-0 win.

With 4 SPL games to go, the title is within reach. Next up: Japan FC — and we’ll be seeking revenge for our earlier 2-2 draw.

Cheers,
Freek