The final match of the 2025 Jiangsu Football City League between Nantong and Taizhou kicks off at the Nanjing Olympic Sports Center on Nov 1. [Photo/WeChat account: haimenfabu] 

After an intense 90 minutes, the final match of the 2025 Jiangsu Football City League (Suchao) between Nantong and Taizhou concluded in a 0-0 tie. In a thrilling penalty shootout, Taizhou narrowly beat Nantong 4-3 to win the league's golden trophy. 

When the final whistle blew, the off-site viewing area in Haimen district, Nantong, did not fall silent — instead, it erupted into enthusiastic applause, with some shouting, "Go Nantong team, keep it up next year!" 

This 176-day event, featuring 13 cities, 85 matches, and 516 players, was more than just a sporting spectacle for Haimen — it became a key to unlocking the deep integration of culture, sports, tourism, and commerce. 

During the league, Haimen creatively combined traditional culture with sports. Items like blue calico, an national intangible cultural heritage, were transformed into trendy merchandise such as caps and bags. Wooden football ornaments, inspired by traditional mortise-and-tenon techniques, also became a bestseller, revitalizing traditional craftsmanship. 

Wooden football ornaments inspired by traditional mortise-and-tenon techniques. [Photo/WeChat account: haimenfabu] 

To celebrate, Haimen turned its main business districts and public areas into live viewing spots, featuring cultural night markets and local food, spreading the excitement of the matches into consumption. 

As the confetti settled, Haimen showed that sports go beyond just competition — they're a catalyst for cultural revival, economic vitality, and community pride. The trophy might have moved, but the city's spirit remains strong. 

An off-site viewing area in Haimen district attracts a large number of residents to watch the Suchao match. [Photo/WeChat account: haimenfabu]