"We had a plan and before the game and going into it, we spoke about how football mirrors life where very few things are perfect,” said Lee.

"When things don’t go our way, it’s our duty to react and find ways to deal with it. As long as we could stay in the game, we were always confident that the players had what it takes to finish the game.

"This milestone that we've achieved is for everyone, it’s for Singapore, not just for me or the national team. It’s for everyone."

Ilhan Fandi had a 28-minute performance to remember, with the Buriram United forward setting up Shawal Anuar for the equaliser in the 64th, netting the winner in the 68th and hobbling off in the 85th minute.

"I'm just so happy that Singapore can qualify for the Asian Cup,” said the 23-year-old Ilhan. “Everyone that was involved gave their all, I'm just a player, I just try and do my job.

"To everyone back home, this one is for you. It's been a long journey, it's something the whole country can be proud of and I'm just very proud to be Singaporean.”

It was heartache in the Hong Kong, China camp who had high hopes in front of a packed Kai Tak Stadium after Matt Orr had given them a 15th minute lead.

“Everything was set for the fairy-tale ending,” said head coach Ashley Westwood. “Sometimes you don’t get what you deserve. Not through lack of tactics, endeavour or desire.

“Football is a cruel game at times, more disappointments than ups. This is up there with my strongest devastations.”