Seven years would be their next appearance, the 2012 championships, the next two seasons only had a win, their success was slightly better, Paulense had only two losses, all in the first two matches, they lost to Mindelense of the neighbouring island 4–0 on May 5 which was Paulense's second worst , then to São Nicolau's Atlético from the island capital Ribeira Brava. A goal draw was made with the island's archrival Académica Porto Novo. Paulense made the season's only win on May 26 defeating 3–0 over Académico 83 of Maio's island capital. Paulense's first away draw at the nationals was made, a goal each with Académica Operária from Boa Vista. Paulense finished fourth behind Mindelense with 5 points and was out of further competition. Paulense made it to the 2012 Cape Verdean Cup, one of four cup winners from the region that participate and one of several clubs who competed at both national competitions at the same year, Paulense was not long after out of the cup competition.