With the 2014 World Cup officially closed, GoMason.com caught up with a few of the players on the Mason men's soccer team to find their thoughts and reactions on this year's World Cup. Sophomore forward/midfielder Daniel Hoffmann from Gifhorn, Germany and sophomore goalkeeper Steffen Kraus from Stuttgart, Germany give their reactions and the unique perspective of what it was like to see their home country take home the trophy.

How far did you think Germany would advance before the start of the World Cup?

Hoffmann: “I always thought that they would go far (semi's at least) as they have been very successful over the last tournaments and are extremely talented.”

Kraus: “Obviously I wanted and kind of expected Germany to win. They played really well in the last World Cups and I hoped they would do well again. I knew they had a good team, probably the best in the past 24 years!”

What did you think of Germany being placed in the “Group of Death”?

Hoffmann: “(I) had no worries because I clearly viewed them as the best in the group, although the first game was very important.”

Kraus: “I was happy to see some interesting and soccer-wise some good games. With me living here I felt kind of bad that we were placed with the U.S. because I had the feeling we would beat them, good thing that both made it out of the group!”

How did you feel about Germany being matched with Argentina in the final?

Hoffmann: “Really surprised by Argentina's play in the final, as they were not as dominant before and played extremely disciplined. (I) didn't think it would be as close.”

Kraus: “I actually felt good, because Argentina hadn't had a really good game before the final. They struggled playing teams like Iran and Nigeria, but they did really well in the final which scared me a lot!”

What was going through your mind during the final game, when Germany scored in extra time and when they finally won?

Hoffmann: Relieved. (I) had the feeling that whoever scores first wins the game.

Kraus: That this was the first time for me seeing my team to win the cup. And that Gotze (goal) just saved me from a heart attack, I don't know if I would have been able to watch a PK shootout.”

What are your thoughts on Klose setting World Cup goals record?

Hoffmann: “Shows his importance to this team and system, although it feels weird because he was never regarded as a world-class striker.”

Kraus: “He deserves it! One of the best and especially most consistent strikers in the last 12 years. I remember him scoring in the 2002 WC and now he finally broke Ronaldo's record, a lot of respect for him in the age of 36!”

Do you think Germany can win it again in 2018?

Hoffmann: “Without a doubt, as (the) team is very young and talented.”

Kraus: “We'll see. They'll have good chances, but so much can happen in four years and we have seen this year that there are always upsets in the World Cup!

Do you have dreams to play for the German National Team one day?

Hoffman: “Always had and always will as long as I play football.”

Kraus: “Well I had those dreams but I have to stay realistic! It's really tough since they have great soccer programs all over the country. My goal is it to have a great season with Mason, play professional one day and then make the next step.”