Fans laud Son after the forward breaks down into tears following qualification

Son Heung-min has been lauded by fans after he was pictured crying on the pitch after South Korea beat Portugal to reach the last 16 of the World Cup.

Son set up Hwang Hee-chan's winner in stoppage time to trigger sensational scenes at the Education City Stadium, though his side were made to wait for the end of Uruguay's game against Portugal to see if they had qualified.

Uruguay failed to score again which meant the Koreans progressed from Group H on goal difference, and Son was among those that let out their emotions following the conclusion of their group.

'Seeing heung min son cry after beating Portugal made me cry too', said one user. 'He's such an amazing player who deserves some international success.'

'Seeing son cry made me so happy ahh he deserves this so much what a good soul', added another.

'Son crying makes me cry omg', added a third.

The Spurs forward was a doubt for the tournament after picking up a fractured eye socket playing for his club, but has been determined to play and has started every match so far in Qatar.

He has been forced to wear a face mask, but love has been pouring in for the 30-year-old after he helped his side through to the knock-out rounds.

'What's not to love about Son Heung-min?!' asked one user on Twitter.

'We'll help you break through every obstacle !!!!! Son Heung Min you beautyyyyyy', said another.

It is likely South Korea will now take on Brazil in the next round, with the game to be played on Monday.