The only goal came in the 71st minute. Kadir Yahaya sent a cross into the box, and defender R Sasikumar hit the ball with his shoulder blade. The ball went straight into the net.

That unusual shoulder‑blade strike was later called the “Blade of God” by fans and journalists.

Barry Whitbread was the head coach of the Singapore Lions from 1995 to 1998. He guided the team through the tournament and celebrated the victory in Hanoi.

The win was Singapore’s first international football trophy. The “Blade of God” goal is still remembered as the moment that gave the Lions their historic title.