Captain Dewi Lake says he always believed Wales could defeat New Zealand and end the 73-year hoodoo against the All Blacks.
Wales never trailed in the 35-28 victory as they produced a magnificent display to beat New Zealand for the first time since 1953.
Wales had lost the previous 34 matches in the fixture and had odds of 20-1 with the bookmakers before this game.
But Lake says the group thought they could win against a New Zealand team ranked second in the world and would have gone top if they had beaten Wales.
"Of course we did," said Lake. "Sometimes we sit in front of the media and say we can beat them and it's probably a passing comment for some media outlets or people at home.
"It's not for us. We work hard, we have tough conversations, not only players, but coaches and staff.
"There is much hard work that goes on for this group to grow and succeed.
"For it to finally come to fruition and see it on the field makes me so proud."
Lake's sentiments were echoed by head coach Tandy, who said he felt emotional after the win.
"You could see what it means for the the players, nation and supporters," said Tandy.
