Japan national team captain Makoto Hasebe was proud of his side following their World Cup elimination at the hands of Paraguay.

Asia's last representative in South Africa went out of the tournament 5-3 on penalties after a scoreless draw at the end of 120 minutes and although the Blue Samurai are now out, they can hold their heads high after a positive showing.

"It's a shame we've lost a game like this, because we worked really hard to reach the last 16 and we were on the verge of making history," the Wolfsburg midfielder said.

"Despite the defeat, we've shown the world just what Japanese football is about. Of course I'm disappointed about the result but I'm very proud of our team, which stuck together in the face of every challenge."