V-League champion defender chooses new destination, set to face CAHN directly

Hugo Gomes joins Lion City Sailors, paving the way for a special reunion with CAHN at the 2026/27 Shopee Cup after two impressive seasons in Vietnam.

Lion City Sailors have officially announced Hugo Gomes as the club's first foreign signing ahead of the 2026/27 season. The Brazilian center-back signed a two-year contract, closing a highly successful period at Cong An Ha Noi and opening a unique scenario: he will have the chance to face his former club in the Shopee Cup.

Hugo Gomes joined CAHN in the 2024/25 season and quickly became one of the most reliable pillars in their defense. With his 1.87m frame, aerial ability, situational awareness, and composure in build-up play, the 31-year-old contributed to the police club's victories in the 2024/25 National Cup, National Super Cup, and the 2025/26 V.League. CAHN also finished runners-up in the 2024/25 Shopee Cup after a thrilling race with Buriram United.

Lion City Sailors highly value Hugo Gomes's diverse playing experience, having played in Spain, Portugal, South Korea, and Qatar. Before arriving in Vietnam, he made a rare mark by winning the Portuguese second division three consecutive seasons with three different clubs: Estoril, Rio Ave, and Moreirense.

Football director Luka Lalić commented: "Hugo is an experienced defender who has proven his ability. He will add quality and depth to the squad." The reigning Singapore champions expect Gomes's composure, game reading, and proactive ball-handling to stabilize their defense across multiple competitions.

For his part, Hugo Gomes did not hide his excitement for the new journey. He shared: "I have always been driven by new challenges, and Lion City Sailors' project excites me greatly. This is a club with big ambitions and a clear vision." The Brazilian center-back also emphasized: "Our goal is very clear: to continue standing at the top in domestic competitions and go as far as possible in Asia."

What makes this transfer special lies in the 2026/27 Shopee Cup schedule. Lion City Sailors and CAHN are both in Group B,alongside Johor Darul Ta'zim, Port FC, Persib Bandung, PKR Svay Rieng, and a qualifying team. According to the announced schedule, the Singapore representative will host CAHN at Jalan Besar Stadium on October 8.

That will be a fateful reunion for Hugo Gomes. When the two teams met in the 2024/25 Shopee Cup, CAHN defeated Lion City Sailors 5-0 at Hang Day Stadium. Less than two years later, the defender who once stood in the ranks of the Hanoi-based club might appear on the opposing side.

For CAHN, the meeting in Singapore is not only a challenge against an ambitious opponent but also a special test against someone who knows the structure, personnel, and environment of his former club well. As for Hugo Gomes, the day he reunites with CAHN could become one of the most notable chapters of the Shopee Cup group stage next season.