Brazil 2 Colombia 1: Neymar injury clouds hosts’ progress at World Cup

David Luiz thundered home one of the World Cup’s finest goals as Brazil progressed to the semi-finals, disposing of Colombia in an enthralling battle.
Brazil's David Luiz celebrates scoring his side's second goal.Brazil's David Luiz celebrates scoring his side's second goal.
Brazil's David Luiz celebrates scoring his side's second goal.

However, the 2-1 victory was tinged with concern after star man Neymar left the field on a stretcher in the closing stages.

The immense pressure of being host nation and favourites showed in their last-16 tie, with Luiz Felipe Scolari’s side requiring penalties and a dollop of good fortune to see off Chile.

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Another South American rival awaited at the quarter-final juncture, with Luiz’s outstanding 35-yard free-kick decisive in a 2-1 victory after which one of the main talking points will be Neymar’s fitness.

The 22-year-old, so key to the Selecao, went to ground in agony during the closing stages after taking a knee to the back from Juan Zuniga, leaving the field in tears on a stretcher.

Brazil will be sweating on their star man’s fitness ahead of their semi-final against Germany, which captain Thiago Silva will definitely miss after incurring a suspension for his booking at the Estadio Castelao.

The skipper played a key role in the Selecao’s progression in Fortaleza, though, defending resolutely after opening the scoring inside seven minutes.

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It was a lead Brazil worked hard to extend and, having seen a Mario Yepes goal ruled out for offside, struck with aplomb midway through the second half, with Luiz sending home an outstanding 35-yard free-kick to send the nation into delirium.

James Rodriguez, the competition’s top scorer, added to his haul with a penalty but Brazil rode out a nervy final 10 minutes to progress, with attentions now undoubtedly turning to the fitness of Neymar.

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