KAZAN, Russia, June 27 (Xinhua) -- South Korean players said after their historic victory over the reigning world champions Germany that they are proud of their team and hard work over the past four years paid off.

"I'm proud of my teammates. Although we didn't qualify for the round of 16, we had done our best in every match," said star striker and second-time World Cup player Son Heungmin.

Son together with the South Korean team had an early exit following two losses and one draw in the group phase of Brazil 2014, though Son scored his first goal at a World Cup tournament that year.

Though they still couldn't make it to the knockout stage, the Tottenham striker had two goals in the tournament this year, one of which was scored against the world's No. 1 Germany.

"I want to thank my coach, my teammates and my fans for everything they have done," said the 25-year-old striker.

Kim Younggwon, who scored South Korea's first goal in Wednesday's match, said that everyone of his team kept fighting till the last moment and their hard work finally paid off.

Also second-time World Cup player, Kim, who plays for Chinese Super League side Guangzhou Evergrande, said that the past four years have been tough for him.

"The victory today gave us some comfort, and I will continue to make contribution to South Korean football," he said.

For goalkeeper Jo Hyeonwoo, who was chosen as man of match for his superb saves, there has never been a better match than the one they played on Wednesday.

"I've never had a perfect game like this before, all my career. I wasn't saving all the shots by myself today - other players were also giving me some help," said the 26-year-old who appeared at a World Cup tournament for the first time.

"All of the Korea players, and also the head coach, we were playing for the Korean people, we all become one for the Korean people," he said.