The Indians showed great determination as they made a memorable comeback, fighting back from a two-goal deficit to turn the match in their favour after being 1-3 down thanks to some defensive lapses.
"I must appreciate this team for the way they have managed a comeback after the heartbreaking defeat against Belgium," said the 53-year-old.
Goalkeeper PR Sreejesh produced some brilliant saves, including saving a penalty corner in the dying moments, to not allow the Germans take the match into the shootout.
"I have always said that Sree (PR Sreejesh) is a big match winner. Harmanpreet (Singh), Rupinderpal (Singh), Simran (Simranjeet Singh) everyone has contributed. The never-say-die attitude of this team is exemplary," said Pillay.
He also said that this win is a result of a long process and the change did not happen overnight.
"This does not happen overnight. There has been a long process behind this. Many people have contributed like former coach Roelant Oltmans, Jose Brasa, Terry Walsh, Ric Charlesworth or Harendra Singh," he said.
"We can not forget the support staff also plus the contribution from former players and the Odisha government."
Pillay said India should start preparing for the 2023 World Cup and 2024 Paris Olympics at the earliest.
"I think we should start preparing for the World Cup and next Olympic straightaway. We must have a wider core group of players and prepare them for the next mission," he signed off.