Greece forward Georgios Samaras has said that it was 'a pleasure' to provide happiness to the Greek people at Euro 2012.

Samaras, whose side stunned group favourites Russia 1-0 to reach the next round, insists that he and his teammates were in full control of the encounter and were never in trouble of allowing a response.

"It's great pleasure for us that we gave happiness to all the Greek people, who are struggling. I am proud of this," he said.

"We never let the Russians create opportunities. We might have looked tired during the game, but after we scored we wouldn't let the Russians respond."

Greece will take on the winners of Group B in the next round.