Brazil required two goals from Thiago Silva and David Luiz to progress to the World Cup semi finals, defeating resilient Colombia at Estadio Castelo in Fortaleza. Brazil beat its toughest hurdle so far with an early 7th minute goal when Neymar curled a cross towards the far post where Captain Thiago Silva deflected the ball in with his knee.
David Luiz doubled the Brazilians’ lead in the 68th minute just after the half time break from a 35 yards-out free-kick. The former chelsea defender struck the ball into the top corner before running off to celebrate with passion.
Colombia were later handed a new lifeline following Brazil goalkeeper Julio Cesar’s foul on Carlos Bacca in the box. James Rodriguez dispatched from the penalty spot in the 80th minute to become the first player to score in the first five World Cup games of a tournament since Rivaldo in 2002.
The noise levels in the Castelao reduced as the Brazilian fans watched Colombia spring up with waves of attack for an equaliser.
Neymar was carried off the pitch injured in the 88th minute before Rodriguez’s second penalty appeal got denied. Brazil were hanging on as Colombian goalkeeper Ospina came to attack a free-kick for in the 94 minute but the side failed to find the goal they needed before the final whistle.
James Rodriguez walked off in tears after Colombia’s elimination as the hosts Brazil look foward to a semi final encounter against Germany on Tuesday.