Brazil 1-7 Germany: Match replay (UK only)

1. Full-match replay by clicking on Live Coverage tab (UK only)
2. Biggest ever World Cup semi-final defeat
3. Germany score four goals in six first-half minutes
4. "Biggest humiliation in Brazilian football" - Vickery
5. Klose becomes highest ever scorer in the World Cup

A truly extraordinary evening of World Cup football.

To go back to our house party analogy all those hours ago, Germany not only outstayed their welcome, they absolutely smashed the place up.

Stay tuned to the BBC Sport site for all of the reaction from Brazil, Germany and beyond.

We'll see you tomorrow evening for Netherlands v Argentina. We'll settle for six or seven goals in that one...

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Simon Edmonds: Guys, guys, guys: BBC 2 at 12pm, "7 wonders of Brazil"...that's just amazing...

Brave Front: If Brazil's quarter final had been officiated properly, Neymar would not be injured, and Colombia would have played Germany.

Tom Castle: Could argue that Brazil's streak of 64 home competitive matches is still alive since they weren't competitive at all.

Player reaction

Brazil goalkeeper Julio Cesar: "After the first (Germany) goal we just had a blackout, nobody expected it.

"Honestly, it's hard to explain. You can't explain the inexplicable."

Germany defender Per Mertesacker on Twitter: DIE MANNSCHAFT! I really enjoy this moment ... now let's go all in for the final. #allin or nothing.

South American football expert Tim Vickery

BBC Radio 5 live

"Brazil haven't lost a competitive home game since 1975 and nothing as painful since 1950, when they lost at home in the final of the World Cup to Uruguay. Some of those players that played that day were never allowed to forget that defeat.

"But this, without doubt, is the biggest humiliation for the Brazilian team ever. Brazilian football is operating absurdly below their potential. The players took the field full of passion but the test of a team is when you go behind. When they did, they then had no faith in what they were doing and that bravado was empty.

"Germany lost 5-1 at home to England 13 years ago and used that defeat to change, and Brazil will have to copy that."

EamonnG: Brazil were propelled to the semi's by refs who didn't want to spoil the party v Chile, Colombia, & now they have paid the price! ‏

Adrian Millerick: Being Brazilian used to add £5mil to your price - that all changed in 90mins.

Worldwide reaction

O Globo

"Brazil is slain by Germany and suffers the biggest defeat in their history: 7-1," writes Brazil news site O Globo.

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Rob Davies: Well done Germany for a great result. Dirty Brazil got what they deserved after kicking Colombia off the park.

Owen Darlington: They say sign of a good team is winning without playing well. Actually it's the sign of a team that is about to get hammered.

Alex Hough: A result to shake to shake the very foundations of the footballing establishment. Nuneaton Town 1 - 2 Derby County.

Worldwide reaction

L'Equipe

"Le Desastre" - little translation required alongside the picture featuring Brazil's David Luiz on the front page of France's L'Equipe.

Luiz is joining Paris St-Germain this summer remember...

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Andrew Costa: Brazil showed it's all about Neymar, Colombia showed it is more than just Falcao.

Adam Gordon: Mertesacker & Ozil, some year; 3-0 down 19 mins in v Chelsea, 4-0 down 20 mins in v Liverpool & 5-0 up, 29 mins in v Brazil.

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"It is going to be horrendous for the Brazil players. They will not sleep. They will be on every newspaper, every news programme.

"The post-mortem starts now. It will affect the players deeply. No matter what they do in their careers, they will be remembered for this forever.

"Some of these players will never be the same again. Somehow they have to bounce back from this. Germany weathered the storm. They had 10 shots on target, and scored seven goals. They are a machine. They are good at what they do."

Player reaction

PA

Germany forward Thomas Muller: "This was not to be expected. I don't know what to say to be honest… I can't believe it.

"It's something totally crazy. It just went well today. Now we have to pull through one more time, we have to fight to get this thing."

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Mick from Winchester on text: After watching Brazil kick lumps out of James Rodriguez in the quarter final, tonight's result shows that there is a footballing god!!

As if that loss wasn't incredible enough, bear in mind that it was Brazil's first competitive home defeat in 64 matches and more than 38 years, since losing their 1975 Copa America semi-final 3-1 to Peru, which was also in Belo Horizonte.

Brazil 1-7 Germany (Seven)

BBC Sport

Germany midfielder Mesut Ozil on Twitter: What a match! Estadio do Maracana - great to see you again!

German football expert Raphael Honigstein

BBC Radio 5 live

"Germany exploited Brazil's problems, and they did it beautifully. Joachim Low had said Brazil would come at Germany with passion and commitment and they defended that. Brazil then started running around like headless chickens.

"You have to praise Germany, of course you do, but Brazil made it easy for them. For the next few days Low will be saying 'don't now take it for granted that you will win the final'."

@LukasPodolski

Germany forward Lukas Podolski on Twitter: Amazing win !! Rio we are coming.

Manager reaction

Epa

Brazil manager Luiz Felipe Scolari: "Who is responsible for this result? I am, it's me. The blame for this catastrophic result can be shared between us all, but the person who decided the line-up, the tactics was me. It was my choice.

"We tried to do what we could, we did our best - but we came up against a great German team. We couldn't react to going behind. Not even the Germans can tell you how this happened - but it's because their skills and you have to respect that.

"My message for the Brazilian people is this. Please excuse us for this performance. I'm sorry that we weren't able to get to the Final - and we're going to try to win the third place match. We still have something to play for."

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"For the first 10 minutes, Brazil were on the front foot and going for it. But David Luiz lost concentration for the first goal and it then just fell apart.

"He was so pumped up, there was so much emotion in the players' eyes, but they were chasing around like crazy men.

"All the talk was about whether they should have played three holding midfield players, but Brazil should have played five defensive midfield players."

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Nadine Erskine: Feel for #Scolari. Such a classy manager, he will take the heat off the #BRA players.

Miracle Roch: Dante and Luiz. Two players with poor positional sense. It's easy to see why the score line is as it is.

Some Body: Scolari should name the same 11 for the 3rd/4th-place playoff. Chance to redeem themselves. No "injuries"!

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Mark from Sunderland on text: Look at how well Germany have done since they re structured the football in the Bundesliga and how many Premier League players were on show tonight and in tomorrow's semi ! English football take note, bigger crowds in Germany, clubs fighting for Champions League year on year and now the national team reap the rewards of the u21 team !

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BBC Two on Twitter:

"Well, this is awkward..."

BBC

Brazil manager Luiz Felipe Scolari has just said in his media conference:

"We ask for forgiveness from the Brazilian people."

You may have to wait for that Big Phil...

The view from Germany

Bild Sport

"7-1 Madness!" write Germany newspaper Bild. "Lightning DFB team knock out Brazil."

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Samara Brackley: Any country wishing to borrow Germany's cash better ask Merkel now.

Anil Gurung: Everyone falls once in life, even people making fun ofBbrazil, but important to bounce back & am sure BRAZIL will.

Greg Hill: Jo, Fred and Bernard declared themselves unavailable for 3/4th playoff. Ethel, Roger and Alan will be replacing them.

Brazil 1-7 Germany (Seven)

BBC Sport

David Luiz was in tears throughout his post-match interviews as well. An incredibly hard one for the Brazilian captain to front up to.

South American football expert Tim Vickery

BBC Radio 5 live

"There is a danger Germany will not get the credit they deserve. This is one of the best World Cup wins ever. They had a horrendous draw at the start and a horrendous group to get out of, but have got to the final the hard way and done it in style.

"Brazilian crowds have responded to the quality football played by other teams and are seeing the intensity of the game. It is three or four classes above the domestic league they are used to and Brazil have suffered from the complacency that has come from their previous successes.

"The medicine for Brazilian football has been very cruel, but very necessary."

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Stuart from Deal on text: Stop commiserating with the Brazilians, who have been dreadful all tournament, and start praising the Germans who have been absolutely brilliant.

Player Reaction

AP

Brazil captain David Luiz: "Apologies to everybody, apologies to all the Brazilian people.

"I just wanted to see my people smile. We all know how important it was for me to see all of Brazil be happy, at least because of football.

"Germany were better than us. They prepared better. They played better.

"It's a very sad day but it's also a day from which to learn."

United States manager and former Germany striker Jurgen Klinsmann on Twitter: Germany writing World Cup history today. A huge, huge compliment. So proud of them.

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Chris Keenan on text: This Brazil team have played poorly through the whole tournament but let's consider that a very poor Brazil were in a World Cup semi final. More than can be said for England or Spain.

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Deadly the Roadie: Brazil also knew that without Thiago Silva, their defence was even more vulnerable - hence frivolous appeal for the 2nd yellow.

Charlotte East: I reckon Muller will pass Klose record for most goals scored!! He's on 10 already.

Barry McCulloch: This is the football equivalent of waking up and discovering that the world isn't flat.

BBC Sport

South American football expert Tim Vickery

BBC Radio 5 live

"I feel so sorry for these Brazilian players as this is a result they will be reminded of for the next 50 years. It was class from Luiz Felipe Scolari at the end, being the father figure to his players.

"Brazilian crowds can be vicious, they can pick on one player, and they did with Fred. I always thought this team could lose, but could never imagine they could be so humiliated."

Man of the match

BBC Sport

Toni Kroos is supposedly leaving Bayern Munich this summer. Any chance of a new deal?

Juninho

Former Brazil and Middlesbrough midfielder

"It will be difficult to recover. Some players I don't think will be back to wear the Brazilian shirt. It is wrong now to criticise the players. On the field Germany taught us how to play football, we have to learn from that.

"Germans played the way we liked to play so we need to sit back, see what is wrong with Brazilian football. Especially in the academies, the way we teach them to play. A lot of change will need to come."

HIGHLIGHTS

All the highlights - and all the goals - are in now. You can watch at the top of the screen, just click on the Highlights tab.

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Reaction from Brazil fans on Twitter on @viabbc.

MCorreaMateus (#BRA ): Neymar and Thiago Silva's absences made the whole team wobble. And made an entire nation wobble. #shameBrazil

Anderson (#BRA ): Neymar will thank the Colombian player who kicked him out for not having to be part of this humiliation.

Thaliaferreira0 (#BRA ): Scolari is to blame for Brazil´s defeat. He only thought about Neymar, not about building a strong side! #Shame

Get Oscar's name in your head. He will be a pub quiz question in years to come.

'Who was the Brazilian player who scored when they were hammered 7-1 by Germany in 2014?'

South American football expert Tim Vickery

"A few years ago we met the players of Brazil's 1950 World Cup squad and they have never been able to forget that defeat, well it will be worse for these players because this is the biggest humiliation in the history of Brazilian football. I feel desperately sorry for them but it might be cruel but necessary.

"Brazilian football is ludicrously short of its potential. resting on its laurels saying everything is fine. It isn't fine. Germany regrouped after the 5-1 against England and Brazil need to do the same thing."

German football expert Raphael Honigstein

BBC Radio 5 live

"Every German goal felt less special. The game was over after 25 minutes. That professionalism is a mark of this German side. After they won in the quarter-finals they hardly celebrated as they knew that was not enough. When Brazil were struggling, Germany went for the kill."

What's the score boss?

Bernard asks Luiz Felipe Scolari what the score is.

Reuters

Steve Peters may be making his way over to Rio in the morning. This Brazil side will need some deep, intensive psycho-analysis.

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"David Luiz's big moment, as captain of his nation in the semi-final of the World Cup, has been ruined for ever."

BBC

Germany were very good - obviously - but this is very much a story of Brazilian disaster. We've seen better teams than this Germany side to be honest.

Getty Images

Former England captain Rio Ferdinand, MOTD analyst

"How these players are going to recover I don't know. I think Germany have shown glimpses of this leading up to this. This is a generation of players who are getting used to winning. They have to go and win it now."

Former England striker Alan Shearer

MOTD analyst

"I would worry that the Brazilian players might never recover from this. Some might not be able to come back from this. Big Phil is looking like he is saying to the players 'leave it to me'. The Germans showed what they were made of but the second half shows their mentality that they wanted more goals. That is how ruthless they are."

Former Scotland defender Alan Hansen

MOTD analyst

"I am totally distraught. I've been watching football for over 50 years, the high point was the Brazil team 1970, this is the low point.

"To be in Brazil to see them capitulate in that manner, you have to give Germany credit but that is a woeful, woeful performance that could not get any lower.

"I don't think the Germans can believe what they have just done. Everything is incredible. It is just disbelief what has happened. Nobody could have summed this up. Even though David Luiz gave one of the worst performances I have ever seen, I still feel sorry for him coming off the pitch in tears."

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"It has been incredible. The Brazilian players will feel embarrassed and humiliated. David Luiz stood there looking at the sky, saying some kind of prayer. There are players down there who are inconsolable.

"Wherever they go, whatever happens, even if they win the next World Cup, people will be saying to these players 'you let us down', 'you were part of that team that didn't win the World Cup when it was in Brazil'. 'You let 200 million people down'."

Former England captain Rio Ferdinand, MOTD analyst

"These guys have to stick around now and play a third or fourth play-off game. Which is the hard thing. All of the media will be on them, I hope they don't find a scapegoat. This was a case of a group of individuals coming up against a very clinical side."

Oscar is in tears, as are several of his team-mates as they gather in a huddle. Maicon appears to be rallying the troops, while suspended captain Thiago Silva is also involved.

The German players go over to their pocket of fans and receive much deserved applause.

The German players queue up to embrace Brazil manager Luiz Felipe Scolari, though what on earth can they say?

Sorry we hammered you Big Phil?

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Dan Deakins: This is all Luiz's fault. Overrated and too emotional to focus on defending.

Peter Gaunt: Barnsley fans sang "it's just like watching Brazil". Now Brazil fans sing "it's just like watching Barnsley....reserves".

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Getty Images

David Luiz sinks to his knees and prays, as does Luiz Gustavo. And well they might.

Getty Images

FULL-TIME

It's all over! Germany are into the final, Brazil are humiliated.

An extraordinary scoreline.

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"Germany will be a little bit disappointed. But the cheers from the home fans were ironic cheers. It isn't even a consolation goal."

Former England defender Martin Keown

MOTD

"For once Neuer, the sweeper keeper, is not there. You expect him to be there, he starts to come and then goes back and Oscar does the rest."

GOAL

They have got one! And Germany are furious, which sums up their professionalism.

It's a soft one too as Oscar gets in through the middle, sidesteps the last defender and buries the shot.

Getty Images

BBC Sport

CLOSE!

Bernard shoots over and he is loudly jeered. At 21, he is the future of Brazil and how will the likes of he and Neymar respond?

But at the other end Mesut Ozil is played clean through and shoots wide. Big chance...

Andre Schurrle chases a throughball and I reckon he could get there but he eases up before, at the other end, Oscar drives it wide.

Marcelo caps a nightmarish performance by chasing 45 yards downfield to meet a crossfield pass -and then missing the ball altogether.

Someone make it stop...

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"Luiz Felipe Scolari, arms folded, must be thinking 'how will I explain this?'. Not just to the Brazilian press, but to the world's press.

"Germany have won this without trying that hard. They haven't had to close the Brazilians down."

You can listen to the game using the live coverage tab at the top of the page.

Ramires has a shot and it's well held by Manuel Neuer, who I'm quite disappointed hasn't been given a run out in midfield or maybe up front.

Into the last five minutes, of probably the worst five minutes in Brazil's footballing history...

I'm going to start putting the (Seven) in brackets, in true videprinter style. Do not adjust your sets.

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport Chief Football Writer in Belo Horizonte

"David Luiz began this day being feted on Brazilian national television as the man who would lead Brazil to glory in the absence of Neymar and captain Thiago Silva. Instead he has played his full part in an embarrassment to this proud country."

AFP

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Gabe Arii: Germany just wrecked the career of 23 Brazilians. How will they ever think of football again without having nightmares?

TomGloverComedy: Turns out training and ability are more important than shouting a national anthem whilst crying.

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Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"We have concentrated on how poor Brazil have been, a complete shambles, but Germany have been in control. It isn't men against boys, it's men against infants."

You can listen to the game using the live coverage tab at the top of the page.

This is absurd. Absurd stuff.

Germany are playing it around , making Brazil chase it as the home fans ironically 'Ole!' every pass.

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"What a fantastic strike from Schurrle. He gave Julio Cesar no chance. But the celebrations were almost apologetic. The German fans were shaking their heads, asking 'is this real?'"

You can listen to the game using the live coverage tab at the top of the page.

Former England defender Martin Keown

MOTD

"Stunning finish. Every one of these goals is just sublime football. I think the Brazilians have had enough. The Germans can't believe it, they are shaking their heads in disbelief.

"The Brazilian fans are applauding Germany. they know good football when they see it."

GOAL

Sensational.

What a goal! And applause rings out around the Estadio Mineirao as they just have to accept a wonderful goal from Andre Schurrle.

It comes from a quick throw-in, Thomas Muller flicks the ball in form the left to find Schurrle, and he cracks a rising shot in at the near post, the ball kissing the underside of the crossbar and in.

Wow...

Reuters

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"A lot of Germany's players are about 24 or 25 and hitting their peak. These players are in their prime and would be worthy winners of the World Cup, but they still have to go and win the final."

You can listen to the game using the live coverage tab at the top of the page.

David Luiz has lost his head, big style. He is not happy with Thomas Muller's challenge but then wildly swings at him, he tries to smash Muller into the stands but, as is befitting his performance tonight, he can't connect. An air-kick and more humiliation.

No cards from the ref though.

SUBSTITUTION

Sami Khedira - who was sensational in that first half - is replaced and Julian Draxler gets 15 minutes of the World Cup semi-final to go and enjoy.

AFP

Former England defender Martin Keown

MOTD

"The frightening thing is I think there is more in the locker for Germany in the final."

Chelsea must be glad they've already sold David Luiz to PSG. PSG must be making a note to never, ever play him if Thiago Silva is suspended.

Brazil have been so bad they've made Danny Mills sad. A new low.

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"Brazil have given up. Fred was taken off to save himself from any more embarrassment. Every time he touched the ball he was booed and it was not nice. This whole game is actually just sad now."

Former England defender Martin Keown

MOTD

"Shocking defending as the boos ring round the stadium. Again another tap in. The marking is totally non existent. Look at David Luiz standing on his heels. Ridiculous."

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Alex Homatas: I though this would be Klose but Brazil are getting Mullered.

Sam Thompson: Germany have scored more goals in 3 minutes than England did in entire World Cup.

Tweet us your reaction to this World Cup mauling at #bbcworldcup.

SUBSTITUTION

Fred is replaced by Willian and Fred gets dog's abuse from the crowd, which continues when the camera picks him out on the bench.

That's poor. It's not his fault.

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"Brazil's defending is even worse than England's. A knife through hot butter does not even do it justice. Every single fan is now booing."

You can listen to the game using the live coverage tab at the top of the page.

GOAL

The boos ring out as Germany try to score for the first time in half an hour - and promptly do. The move down the right comes to Philipp Lahm, he gets his head up and picks out Andre Schurrle in space, eight yards out, and he slots home.

This would be the biggest win in a World Cup semi-final.

AP

Former England defender Martin Keown

MOTD

"Muller is playing centre forward for Germany and that creates a different problem because he is playing on the last defender's shoulder."

You can watch the match by clicking on the Live Coverage tab at the top of the page.

Where's the defence?!

Germany attack down their left and when the cross comes over Thomas Muller is all alone, in oceans of space. He would surely bag a sixth but Julio Cesar comes way out of his goal to sweep away.

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"This has become a nothing game. The post-mortem for this defeat will go on for days, months, possibly years. This is so unprecedented for Brazil."

You can listen to the game using the live coverage tab at the top of the page.

AFP

"Losing in front of your home crowd. You wish the ground would open and take you down.

"And will time ever pass? Will time never pass for us?"

Not my words, the words of Morrissey. But these Brazil players will feel like time really is standing still as this half crawls along.

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Anthony Shaw: I generally think I could do better than the Brazilian defence. And I'm an asthmatic nerd with no sporting ability.

Tony O'Brien: Brazil resorting to outrageous dives. Embarrassing and pathetic.

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Former England defender Martin Keown

MOTD

"Comparing Fred to those great World Cup strikers, and his movement is non existent. You have to blame Scolari for continuing to pick him."

Fred is getting hammered from the terraces which seems a bit harsh to me. Not that he's had a good game but he's hardly to blame for the chronic defending.

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"Germany have been incredible. They epitomise everything German football is about. Muller is a fabulous player.

"Any time Brazil's players get into the box they are going to the ground cheaply. They are doing anything to try to get a consolation goal."

You can listen to the game using the live coverage tab at the top of the page.

Brazil 0-5 Germany

Getty Images

A storm and misery in Brazil, sun and beers in New York. It may not be Berlin, but pretty much anywhere will feel like home to Germans at the moment. Their side are 30 minutes away from the final and a chance to secure a fourth World Cup.

PENALTY APPEAL

Maicon glides in at the back post and goes to ground - that's a dive. Nothing given.

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport Chief Football Writer in Belo Horizonte

"Brazil's fans are seeking a scapegoat - and it sounded like Fred might be the man judging by the toxic reaction to a tame finish from the struggling striker."

AFP

GREAT SAVE!

Almost six! Germany's first real attack of the second half and Thomas Muller is in, he tries to go round Julio Cesar but the goalkeeper tackles him well.

And then wow what a save! Muller bends in a beauty from range and Cesar turns it away. Muller may well end the night eclipsing that Miroslav Klose record...

Former England defender Martin Keown

MOTD

"Klose gives a much better balance to the team. Incredible achievement and a nice final to look forward to for him. A good night's work. People say the number nine is disappearing from the game but Klose is proving you have to have one."

Click on the Live Coverage tab at the top of this page to watch the match.

AFP

SUBSTITUTION

Miroslav Klose is off, he won't add to his record of 16 goals. Andre Schurrle on in his place, and Germany have one substitute left to rest another first team player.

Can Joachim Low bring himself on?

What do you reckon David Luiz has got in his head? I reckon he just permanently has Jamiroquai on a loop.

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"David Luiz has not been disciplined enough. You have to have fire in your body and ice in your head, but he hasn't got that."

You can listen to the game using the live coverage tab at the top of the page.

Brazil have had 71% of the ball in the second half. It's much improved but nobody will remember that when they discuss the Battering of Belo Horizonte in years to come.

Brazil 0-5 Germany

Former England goalkeeper David James tweets: "Silva's needless booking in the last match has had more influence on today's match than Neymar's injury. Dante & Luiz are like strangers."

Accrington Stanley on Twitter: We've ruled out a summer bid for Maicon. We'll stick with Nicky Hunt thanks very much...

GREAT SAVE!

Now that is a really good save! Manuel Neuer turns away a powerful drive form Paulinho but Brazil are seriously threatening to cut this lead to four goals...

AFP

Former England defender Martin Keown

MOTD

"Manuel Neuer is surely the best goalkeeper in world football."

AFP

GREAT SAVE!

Chance! Germany are now playing with no discipline at the back and Brazil waltz through to find Oscar, his low shot is firmly struck but again Manuel Neuer makes the stop.

AFP

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"There are a lot of empty seats here. Holland and Argentina must be looking at this and will be thinking 'wow'.

"It has been easy for Germany and they can afford to take the second half lightly, so they will be well rested for the final."

You can listen to the game using the live coverage tab at the top of the page.

Brazil's best opening! Ramires gets into the box and almost cuts it back for Chelsea team-mate Oscar but Manuel Neuer gets a strong wrist on it and turns it away.

Germany haven't scored for 20 minutes. What an absolute shower. A disgrace...

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Some of you are commenting on the goings on in Belo Horizonte on our BBC Sport Facebook page.

Dayboh Banjo: This is not the real game, this is Fifa pro for Playstation 5 being tested on live television. The guy playing with Brazil in this has fallen asleep on the controls.

Adam A. Blackman: WOW Brazil complete embarrassment to their nation. Easier to be an England fan tonight. At least we didn't embarrass ourselves like that!

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Brazil will be playing for pride, as the saying goes, but let's be honest, their pride has been taken out back and shot.

Getting hammered 5-0 after 30 minutes of the semi-final in your own country is something that will take more than a decent 45 minutes to recover from.

Without wishing to overdo it, the ramifications of this may well rumble on for years...

AFP

Former England defender Martin Keown

MOTD

"It was totally inept. Having followed Brazil's journey I didn't expect it to end in this manner. It is about restoring pride and they could have taken any player off."

You can watch the match by clicking on the Live Coverage tab at the top of the page.

Juninho

Former Brazil and Middlesbrough midfielder

"I am in shock. It is unbelievable. Their play all over the field, it looks like a training session when they let their mates play. Unbelievable, especially back four, we are not closing off. They are moving, passing so easy. It is difficult to understand the attitude.

"Everyone was talking about Neymar but Thiago in this game we have missed. Scolari needs to protect the team, don't think to win the game but don't concede more goals."

Reuters

South American football expert Tim Vickery

BBC Radio 5 live

"In order to change things, Brazilian football needs something like this, to avoid that arrogance where they say 'we have won it five times, we will win it again'.

"I would give Fernandinho a mark of one out of 10 for putting his shirt on the right way around."

SUBSTITUTION

Just the three changes at the break. Germany replace Mats Hummels with Per Mertesacker, and Brazil give Hulk and Fernandinho the hook.

On come Ramires and Paulinho. A real thankless task.

KICK-OFF

Brazil tentatively get us back under way...

Former Scotland defender Alan Hansen

MOTD analyst

"We said before the match because Thiago Silva was missing, someone had to step up to the plate and David Luiz disappeared."

AFP

It is an unwritten rule of football that when a team takes a massive lead in the first half of a game, the second half is always a complete non event.

Will Germany observe that rule? Or go for six, seven - eight?

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Dave from Plymouth on text: And I thought that penalties was the cruelest way to lose a semi final. Brazil have 45 minutes of torture left!

Callum from Manchester: Brazil are that bad I'm half expecting them to come out having somehow conceded another two during the break...

Brazil 0-5 Germany

Comedian Kevin Bridges: "Brazil could be heading home...."

Unsurprisingly, tonight was the earliest any team has been 5-0 up in a World Cup match.

Brazil 0-5 Germany

Former England captain Rio Ferdinand, MOTD analyst

"I wouldn't want to be one of these players walking out of the stadium. It's an embarrassment for the Brazilians. I remember us playing Liverpool a few years ago and it was four or five nil and Scholesy turned round and said 'listen, no more goals.'"

AFP

Former England striker Alan Shearer

MOTD analyst

"You saw what it meant to the crowd. Little boys were crying. They were absolutely devastated. You've got to put in more of a fight than that."

AFP

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport Chief Football Writer

"Brazil coach Luiz Felipe Scolari said the other day that his critics "can go to hell". He may find he has roughly 200 million of them in about an hour's time. Germany have been outstanding but Brazil have been nothing short of horrendous.

"All the pre-match posturing with baseball caps for injured Neymar and holding up his number 10 shirt during the national anthem now looks utterly hollow."

AFP

Brazil 0-5 Germany

Getty Images

Some of that defending was horrific on second viewing, but Sami Khedira's pass for the fourth goal was superb.

BBC Sport

Former England striker Alan Shearer

MOTD analyst

"Klose got a little bit of luck for the second goal. Marcelo had an absolute nightmare. Germany worked it well, it was good play and incisive. He maybe should have put it away the first time, but you don't give a man like that a second chance. It's an unbelievable World Cup scoring record. His goals per games record is outstanding."

England cricketer Joe Root ‏on Twitter: The only person wearing yellow tomorrow will be the leader of the Tour de France.

Join the debate at #bbcworldcup

Former Blackburn midfielder Robbie Savage

BBC Sport

"Funny thing is Brazil would still hammer England."

Brazil 0-5 Germany

Former England captain Rio Ferdinand, MOTD analyst

"I did call it. I think Brazil have come up against a well oiled clinical machine. The way Germany set up in the first 10 to 15 minutes, there were no gaps and no space for Brazil to play. I think Khedira has been the best player on the pitch. Broken up attacks brought people in, got his goal, everything you want from a midfielder."

AFP

Former Scotland defender Alan Hansen

MOTD analyst

"There has never been a game like this. It is utter humiliation for Brazil, When you talk about every facet of defending, it is about four levels below rock bottom. It is so bad it is embarrassing. David Luiz is meant to be the leader and he has abandoned ship."

AFP

Join the debate at #bbcworldcup

Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge: Fair play to Klose... Broke my idol Ronaldo's record. Unbelievable achievement!!

Have you ever seen anything quite like this?

What on earth can Luiz Felipe Scolari say now?

"Let's win the second half lads? It's still 0-0."

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"Brazil have to play with some pride, but they have blown their chance. They could have become legends. Instead this Brazil team have become villains. And they will be villains for the rest of their lives.

"Thiago Silva and Neymar will be disappointed to not be playing, but part of them will be thinking 'I am so glad I'm not out there'."

HALF-TIME

I'm not normally one for advocating booing sides off at half-time. But I think that was justified.

Former England defender Martin Keown

MOTD

"Brazil are just playing for pride now. Germany are so ruthless, they have got their foot on the opposition and they won't take it off them."

One minute added on. Though we are really set to play 45 minutes more of added time. Called the second half.

Join the debate at #bbcworldcup

Kaspar Larsen: Will Low dare to make early substitutions to save his core players, or keep them on the pitch for the confidence boost?

Chris Kendall: I bet the Germany fans currently feel like we did when we beat them 5-1!

London-Dude: #Brazil's ugly football is now being torn apart by #german efficiency.

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"To put this into perspective, England beat Moldova 5-0. This is Germany beating Brazil, in Brazil, 5-0, in 30 minutes of the game. Everyone is numb. Is this real? Is this a dream? No. It's an absolute nightmare for Brazil.

"Once that first goal went in, you could see the Germans growing in confidence and they have ripped this Brazil team apart.

"If Brazil don't concede again it will be as much of a surprise as them being down 5-0."

You can listen to the game using the live coverage tab at the top of the page.

Has a manager ever resigned at half-time of a World Cup semi-final?

AFP

Five alive?

BBC Sport

The biggest ever WC semi final loss is 6-1. It has happened three times.

Are we on for a fourth? Brazil will have to score and they don't look like doing so now. I'm not far off speechless. Germany look in ruthless mood.

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"It is hard to explain how good the Germans have been. Schweinsteiger has sat there in front of the back four and not given the ball away.

"The Germans have that control and self belief - give us the ball and we will control the game - that's what they have done."

AFP

There were just 179 seconds between Germany's second and fourth goals. If this was a computer game Brazil would have turned off and thrown the control pad across the room.

Unfortunately for 201 million Brazilians it's very, very real...

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"The game is over. Brazilian fans do not know what to make of it. I've never seen a game like it. To be so over-whelmed by the opposition is amazing.

"Brazil have gone. It is almost too late to even restore some pride. This is not being beaten. This is being humiliated."

You can listen to the game using the live coverage tab at the top of the page.

AP

Many teams would have taken their foot off the pedal by now - not Germany. They are all over Brazil.

It's like watching the Australian cricket team of the late 1990s tearing into John Crawley, Graeme Hick and Dean Headley...

Join the debate at #bbcworldcup

Craig O'Donnell: Tweets how poor Brazil are, but for me its more how good Germany are. So professional in every aspect. Role models to any side.

Robin Greenwell: To call #BRA defending schoolboy would be an insult to school football! Even #ENG would batter them!

Richard Allen: This is like watching a kids game when the bigger boys are just too strong! The trouble is #BRA don't know how stop them.

Least it's not Messi...

The one saving grace I can think of for Brazil fans is that at least it's not Lionel Messi and Argentina handing out the humiliation tonight.

Manuel Neuer in midfield after the break?

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"Every time Germany come forward they look like scoring. Klose will think 'how many more goals can I get', the same for Muller.

"We know the Brazilians are hot-headed at times and it would not surprise me if a Brazilian loses his cool and gets a red card.

"You would never have even predicted 5-0 after 90 minutes, but it could be anything."

AFP

This may well be the most ridiculous half of football I've ever seen.

For weeks - maybe months - we have been asking how much pressure is on the hosts in this World Cup.

We have just found out. Too much.

Way, way too much...

Text us on 81111

Dan from London on text: Easy to say it now BUT since the Croatia game Brazil have been waiting to be found out. This is excruciating.

Stuart from Watford: Thought this match would be Klose but Brazil being Mullered and completely on Kroos control.

Brazil 0-5 Germany

Getty Images

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport Chief Football Writer in Belo Horizonte

"One of the most remarkable halves of football any World Cup has seen. Germany do not look like they will score every time they attack, they invariably are."

As you would imagine the crowd inside the Estadio Mineirao have gone very, very quiet. To their credit they are still in their seats as Toni Kroos hits a deflected shot wide.

Germany have had 42% possession. But they've not done bad when they have had it...

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"The defence has capitulated. The whole stadium is almost in silence in shock. It was so easy. The romantics in this wanted Brazil to be in the final in the Maracana, but fair play to the Germans they have been exceptional.

"They were under pressure in the first 10 minutes, but remained calm and have made this Brazilian side look, defensively, worse than schoolboys."

Who had money on Germany being 5-0 up after half an hour then?

Anyone?

Join the debate at #bbcworldcup

Ricky Beresford: Just watch David Luiz's defensive contribution for the 2nd goal - it's worst than the first and that's saying something!#brutal.

Tim Arstall: This is insane, football history surely being made.

Tim Ward: When did England start playing in yellow?

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport Chief Football Writer in Belo Horizonte

"Brazil may be missing Neymar but they have missed Thiago Silva more. Germany have completely ripped them to shreds, Luiz Felipe Scolari is standing dumbstruck on the touchline. There is an eerie quiet around Estadio Mineirao, almost as if Brazil's fans are still working out how to react."

GOAL

FIVE!

Good grief. Again it's so easy as Sami Khedira walks through a weak tackle and the defence falls apart, he finds Mesut Ozil on his left, again he just cuts it back and Khedira sweeps home from 12 yards.

FIVE NIL...

Getty Images

Former England defender Martin Keown

MOTD

"Brazil without their two best players is like pulling the plug out of the bath. It is embarrassing for Brazil. It is about restoring pride now. Brazil just haven't turned up, you need that strong backbone and it is missing from this team."

Reuters

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"At times Brazil defensively have been a shambles. Brazil are clearly missing Thiago Silva.

"We have just seen the picture of a fan and he is in tears. The Brazil fans are in shock.

"We never expected this. Brazil have been hit on the counter attack again and again. This could end up seven or eight. Germany have been exceptional, clinical, efficient. David Luiz should be playing centre-half, but is halfway up the field. Brazil are all over the place. Game over."

GOAL

Extraordinary. Absolutely extraordinary!

I can't quite believe this. Straight from kick off - Straight away - Fernandinho loses the ball and Germany are in on goal.

Toni Kroos plays in Sami Khedira, who unselfishly squares it back to Kroos for a tap-in and it's 4-0.

Four nil. After 26 minutes. It's safe to say that Thiago Silva was holding this defence together...

Getty Images

Former England defender Martin Keown

MOTD

"Germany are so good down the right side. It is one of the best finishes you will see. What a finish, it goes like an arrow. Yes it is lucky but look at the finish at the end of it."

GOAL

You remember me saying that Bastian Schweinsteiger was laughing at kick-off? Now we know why.

His side are handing out a battering to Brazil. A cross from the right is swung at and missed by Thomas Muller, and Toni Kroos hammers in with his left foot from 20 yards!

This could get embarrassing...

Getty Images

Former England defender Martin Keown

MOTD

"They lost look the Brazilians. Stunning from Germany. Klose isn't going to miss that one. Puts him in the record books."

GOAL

THAT'S THE RECORD!

Miroslav Klose has his 16th goal in World Cups and again they make it look so, so easy. A passing move from the right ends with Toni Kroos laying the ball off into Klose's path. His first shot is tame and easily saved by Julio Cesar but can only cough it up to Klose, who sweeps in from eight yards.

He is the all-time record goalscorer in World Cups and he may well be going to the final...

Getty Images

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"Brazil will be very disappointed with the goal. Luiz Felipe Scolari will be furious with David Luiz. When a player loses his marker from a corner or a set-piece then that goal could have easily been stopped.

"Since the goal Brazil have been very gung-ho and are running at people, but leaving themselves exposed. If Germany can stay composed then they can hit Brazil on the break.

"Germany are playing very cool and using the tactical nous they have, while Brazil have been very frantic."

You can listen to the game using the live coverage tab at the top of the page.

Miroslav Klose is finding space on the edge of the penalty area and twice he should do better. First he hesitates and is closed down before he can't link up with Mesut Ozil.

Former England defender Martin Keown

MOTD

"It is breaking down far too quickly on the Brazil left hand side. Marcelo and Hulk have to keep the ball better. Credit the Germans though, it is like a knife through butter at times, their midfield is incredible."

The first half of Brazil v Colombia was played as if it was the final 10 minutes - and so is this one. Brazil are chasing the ball like an Under-11 side at times. Germany had a three-on-three break but Thomas Muller's pass is just cut out to prevent Miroslav Klose a one-on-one.

Former England defender Martin Keown

MOTD

"A beautiful challenge by Lahm. Great timing. Good play by Brazil but a textbook challenge. It is boiling over a little bit."

You can watch the match by clicking on the Live Coverage tab at the top of the page.

Text us on 81111

Sean in Lincoln via 81111: "Brazil won't score tonight, in this tournament, they only score against countries starting with the letter C."

Brazil's goals inside 90 minutes in the tournament have come against Croatia, Cameroon, Chile and Colombia.

Afters!

Brilliant tackle from Philipp Lahm to stop Marcelo in his tracks as the left-back bombed into the area, Marcelo goes down and makes a meal of it and it all spills over. Pushing, shoving, as Jerome Boateng squares up to Marcelo. Well marshalled by referee Marco Rodriguez.

This Brazil side will test their nation's faith this evening as Germany look so composed and slick. They are keeping the ball so much better than Brazil.

Join the debate at #bbcworldcup

A few comments from Brazilian fans on social media, gathered by @viabbc.

RogerioMoller (#BRA ): I believe in the drive, the heart, the union and Scolari's competence. Go, Braziiiiil!

ahnitaner (#BRA ): I'm expecting Brazil to win, of course! Focus, strength (to resist fatigue as long as necessary) and faith.

Rai Rezende: #GER is so strong..But #BRA is #PENTA. And we have one reason more to believe: The players will do the possible to win for Neymar.

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport Chief Football Writer in Belo Horizonte

"Brazil's fans were stunned into silence for a few seconds by Thomas Muller's goal - before a deafening "Brasil" chant echoed around Estadio Mineirao."

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"Disaster for Brazil and they had been on top. The ball came in and nobody was marking Thomas Muller. David Luiz lost his man, he had got wrapped up with the atmosphere in the first 10 minutes, and Muller just pulled off his shoulder for a very simple finish.

"We said Luiz had to remain his discipline, but he has just lost his concentration."

You can listen to the game using the live coverage tab at the top of the page.

AFP

Join the debate at #bbcworldcup

Ritchie H: And who was marking exactly??? Have all of the Brazil players gone to sleep?

Abdul Karim: Oh dear Brazil. Schoolboy defending at the WorldCup.

Tweet us on #bbcworldcup, text 81111 or comment on the BBC Sport Facebook page to interact with tonight's live text.

Thomas Muller now has as many World Cup goals as Gary Lineker. He's only five off the record and he's just 24.

That goal hasn't quelled the Brazilian fans' enthusiasm though. Plenty of noise still in Belo Horizonte.

AFP

Former England defender Martin Keown

MOTD

"He is totally unmarked. Unbelievable to get that space at this level. Muller makes it look easy but it is just about concentration."

Getty Images

GOAL

So, so easy!

Thomas Muller has his fifth goal of the World Cup, his 10th goal in World Cups, and it's the most simple of the lot.

Toni Kroos hits an outswinging corner, Dante and David Luiz both miss it and Muller can't believe his luck, smashing in a side-foot volley from six yards out.

BBC

Former England defender Martin Keown

MOTD

"Germany are getting in far too easily. Marcelo left a big space to run into and Brazil get lucky. The shot hits Kroos on the back.

"This game is very open. Both sides are saying we are going to attack better than you are."

You can watch the match by clicking on the Live Coverage tab at the top of the page.

End-to-end stuff! This is a very open game. Brazil attack swiftly and find Fred with his back to goal, but it's almost like netball as he makes the half-turn and just waits for runners beyond him.

You are allowed to 'travel' with it Fred! The big nine loses the ball and Germany are away again - so much space in midfield and that is dangerous for the hosts.

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"Brazil are snapping into the tackles when Germany get the ball and Brazil are playing a high tempo, closing the ball down quickly.

"With this anthem and this atmosphere, it gives the Brazilian players such a lift in the first 10 minutes. You could see the intensity on their faces, they have to control that, but it gives them an edge in terms of energy early on."

You can listen to the game using the live coverage tab at the top of the page.

Join the debate at #bbcworldcup

Stu: David Luiz and Dante have potentially the best hair combo of any defensive pair at a World Cup ever.

Alan Wylie: Looking forward to seeing Bernard tonight for #BRA think he might have a trick up his sleeve tonight.

Tweet us on #bbcworldcup, text 81111 or comment on the BBC Sport Facebook page to interact with tonight's live text.

Lovely attack from Germany! Thomas Muller finds space - that's his trademark - out on the right this time, his cross comes over to Mesut Ozil on the left of the area. He looks up and as the cry is for him to shoot, he instead cuts back a brilliant pass to find Sami Khedira arriving at real pace.

Khedira connects beautifully but cannons the shot into the back of Toni Kroos.

BBC

Brazil 0-0 Germany

Chris Bevan

BBC Sport in Brazil

BBC Sport

"Not seen rain like this since I was last in Salford."

A storm is engulfing the Copacabana in Rio where an estimated 70,000 fans have gathered to watch tonight's match in a Fifa fanzone.

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"It's exactly how Brazil started against Colombia - on the front foot. Hulk is on the left side and he played well in the first half against Colombia, he got the ball, ran at people and caused problems for defenders.

"The Germans are rattled and have given the ball away a couple of times already. Every time the Germans get the ball, the crowd are jeering. This is going to be some game and some atmosphere."

You can listen to the game using the live coverage tab at the top of the page.

David Luiz will always have a few question marks over his head as a centre-back but he shows the other side of his game, spraying a glorious 60-yard pass out to Hulk on the wing. His cross comes to nothing and Germany again spring a quick break, but Luiz recovers well to stop Miroslav Klose in his tracks.

We've started at an excellent pace. Premier League pace.

AFP

Former England defender Martin Keown

MOTD

"It will be interesting to see Oscar in that central role that Neymar has vacated today. Luiz Gustavo being back is very important for Brazil, especially in the absence of Silva and Neymar."

AFP

Not a great minute for Mesut Ozil, a slip robbing Germany of the chance of a quick counter, before he pulls out of a tackle in midfield. Got to be stronger there.

Marcelo then has the first shot of the night but skims it wide.

Bastian Schweinsteiger was visibly beaming with delight as they kicked off. They don't do nerves in Munich...

Former England defender Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"That was one of the best renditions of a national anthem I have ever seen. It was unbelievable, from start to finish. Every single Brazilian in the stadium was singing."

KICK-OFF

Germany, in their snazzy red and black away kit, get us going...

Join the debate at #bbcworldcup

David Cushing: Class, style, skill and pace against the workman-like hosts.

Chris Gilbert: Germany is the stronger team, but Brazil have the home advantage, which is big with those fans. I think Germany will shade it.

AFP

Former England striker Alan Shearer

MOTD analyst

"Brazil have home advantage. They will obviously play for Neymar and they'll be playing to get to the final for captain Thiago Silva. They also have a wily old man in charge who has done it before. It'll be a long night, but Brazil will win it."

AFP

But Brazil's anthem is something else altogether. With the addition of that a capella second verse after the music has stopped they have really made it their own.

Tremendous. Passion? You bet.

David Luiz and Julio Cesar clutch a Neymar 10 shirt as they belt it out. Brilliant. Even all 11 mascots are at full throttle....

AFP

Germany score high in the anthem-off, with Thomas Muller raising the stakes with a cheeky wink to the camera.

Nervous Tommy?

AFP

Big Phil hands Joachim Low a present in a Brazil bag - that's awkward. Low hasn't got Phil anything and has to do that little shrug and slope off...

Former Scotland defender Alan Hansen

MOTD analyst

"If I was to say who is going to win the game I would say it will be who defends better."

The players are in the tunnel. Here we go...

Germany may be in their fourth World Cup semi-final in a way but it is 24 years since they won it - and 18 years since they won anything, with Euro 96 their most recent success.

That's too long for Germany to wait. Is this their year?

Brazil v Germany (21:00 BST)

Former England captain Rio Ferdinand, MOTD analyst

"Cristiano Ronaldo said from his time in Portugal that Luiz Felipe Scolari creates a family environment and becomes the father figure. That puts a player at ease and you know if that's the case you feel relaxed as a player. He takes the expectations off the players and on to himself."

Former Scotland defender Alan Hansen

MOTD analyst

"I like Luiz Felipe Scolari. I think he is pragmatic, single minded, immune to criticism and stands or falls by his results.

"David Luiz's concentration levels have to be 100 per cent. In this tournament he has done alright, made some good interceptions, but at this stage one mistake could be fatal and you always feel there is a mistake there."

Former England international Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"It's perfect conditions for playing football and the first 10 or 15 minutes will be key.

"Germany will try to isolate Dante or David Luiz as neither of them are the most disciplined of defenders, and maybe Germany can exploit their weaknesses."

Just over 15 minutes to go until kick-off then - which means 10 minutes until the anthems.

If there was a World Cup of anthems Brazil would win it hands down - beating Italy in the final...

Juninho

Former Brazil and Middlesbrough midfielder

"In 2002 there were more experienced guys in the Brazil team, more quality players who could decide the match. This group though are stronger as a unit maybe.

"I have been in the changing rooms and felt there was a light atmosphere, they are very strong and that makes me believe that Brazil go to the final."

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport Chief Football Writer

Getty Images

"Huge roar for Belo Horizonte local boy Bernard when his name appeared on the big screens. What a task for him tonight, filling the gap left by the injured Neymar. Luiz Felipe Scolari said Brazil had put his injury behind them - but that may yet prove easier said than done."

Fly on the wall

Fifa

It does not look particularly lavish but there is no doubting the colour. Will the mood be as bright in Brazil's dressing room in a couple of hours?

Former England striker Alan Shearer

MOTD analyst

"I think Germany are a decent team and have great goalscorer in Miroslav Klose and good guy behind him in Thomas Muller, who can play left or right. They have mental toughness about them."

Getty Images

Imagine following Germany at a major tournament.

"Have we got flights and hotels booked for at least the semi-finals lads?"

Brazil v Germany (21:00 BST)

Former England captain Rio Ferdinand

MOTD analyst

"Brazil are missing their two best players. Now it's a question of who is going to stand up and take responsibility. Will David Luiz step up and organise the back four like Thiago Silva does and who is going to add the flair? They are the questions that will be asked today."

Former Scotland defender Alan Hansen

MOTD analyst

"I don't think we have seen a great team yet and that is usually to the detriment of the tournament. But you have got any one of the four sides in the semi-finals who could win it, it is wide open. Germany v Brazil are two of the giants of world football vying for a place in the World Cup final in Brazil. That is a mouth-watering prospect."

You can watch by clicking the Live Coverage tab at the top of this page.

Getty Images

This man captains his side tonight.

Scorer of one of the great World Cup free-kicks last time out, can David Luiz inspire those around him again?

Quick straw poll: Who would pick Maicon over Dani Alves?

LINE-UPS

BBC

Brazil: Julio Cesar, Maicon, Dante, Luiz, Marcelo, Gustavo, Fernandinho, Hulk, Oscar, Bernard, Fred. Subs: Jefferson, Dani Alves, Paulinho, Maxwell, Henrique, Ramires, Hernanes, Willian, Jo, Victor.

LIVE NOW

Stick BBC One on, or watch at the top of the screen - our coverage is under way...

LINE-UPS

BBC

Germany: Neuer, Lahm, Boateng, Hummels, Howedes, Schweinsteiger, Khedira, Muller, Kroos, Ozil, Klose. Subs: Zieler, Grosskreutz, Ginter, Schurrle, Podolski, Draxler, Durm, Mertesacker, Gotze, Kramer, Weidenfeller.

Former England international Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"The back four will have to be superb for Brazil tonight and will have to maintain their concentration throughout the 93 or 123 minutes.

"The role for David Luiz is vital. He has to have one of the games of his life, but also one of his most disciplined performances.

"He has to play as a true centre-half today and if he does not play well, then Brazil will have real concerns."

Fernandinho was a man possessed against Colombia, charging around and putting tackles in like David Batty in his prime.

Who will the Manchester City man target this evening - Mesut Ozil? Thomas Muller?

Stat attack

Germany have trailed for just eight minutes at the 2014 World Cup so far.

Brazil midfielder Fernandinho has committed 10 fouls in his last two World Cup matches without being booked.

Germany have used the fewest players in this World Cup among the four semi-finalists - 17.

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport Chief Football Writer

"Germany's players have just emerged to warm up and received what can best be described as a loud Brazilian raspberry. Goalkeeper Manuel Neuer will be key tonight and he looked the calmest man in the Estadio Mineirao going through his routines.

"Brazil are also out now after completing the usual lengthy bout of hugging and very visible team bonding."

AFP

Joachim Low steps out into the Belo Horizonte evening carrying a glass of his favourite tipple. It looks like Scotch on the rocks but I'm sure it isn't. Apple juice?

Either way he looks as relaxed as he could possibly be.

AFP

How will Brazil line up?

BBC

Scolari's standard 4-2-3-1 system

BBC Sport's South American expert Tim Vickery analysed how Brazil can flourish in the tournament without Neymar here. The above graphic was one of his potential line-ups and it has been proved correct, with Bernard favoured over Willian.

"This has been Scolari's base system for over a year now, since the pieces started to come together at the start of last June with the entry of Gustavo." he said.

"Maintaining the formation would be a gesture of faith in his players and in the depth of his squad. Willian has been seen as the first reserve for either Neymar or Oscar. Indeed, before the tournament there was a media push for him to be in the side in place of his Chelsea team-mate.

"The impression is that he has lost ground over the course of the last few weeks."

Getty Images

Both sets of players look remarkably calm given the pressure of tonight's game. Brazil are captained by David Luiz tonight in a back four featuring some very big hair indeed...

Former England international Danny Mills

BBC Radio 5 live

"You have to back Scolari and say he knows what he is doing by picking Bernard.

"We were expecting Brazil to be a bit negative but if it pays off the manager will be a legend. Sometimes you can throw in a player out of the blue and he comes up with a performance.

"Scolari believes in Bernard and perhaps he can come up with something different."

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport Chief Football Writer

Getty Images

"Once again this stadium is a sea of yellow Brazil shirts and the volume will turn up with every minute towards kick-off now. Germany's fans are making plenty of noise in a small corner and the weather is absolutely perfect - cool and overcast which will suit the players."

Who's Bernard?

So Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Bernard is the man chosen to take Neymar's place on the left of the Brazil attack this evening.

What do we know about the 21-year-old?

He's only 5ft 5ins tall and cost the Ukraine side around 25m Euros last summer when he left Brazil. Coach Luiz Felipe Scolari said last summer that he has 'joy in his legs.'

Can he share the joy tonight?

Vote

Earlier we asked you who will contest the World Cup final. Now it is time to select your winner in our Match of the Day vote.

Argentina, Brazil, Germany or Netherlands? Pick your choice via the voting section on this page.

Voting will close at 21:00 BST. The result will be announced in this page and on the Brazil v Germany Match of the Day programme on BBC1. Terms and conditions can be read here.

BBC Coverage

So how can you keep up to date with tonight's semi-final I hear you say?

You can watch the match live on BBC One from 20:30 BST or click on the Live Coverage tab at the top of the page to view. Former England striker and MOTD presenter Gary Lineker will be joined by former England captain Alan Shearer, ex-Arsenal and England defender Martin Keown and former Scotland defender Alan Hansen.

Match commentator Steve Wilson will be joined by former Arsenal and England defender Martin Keown in Estadio Mineirao in Belo Horizonte.

Join the debate at #bbcworldcup

Michael Hilton: Looking forward to seeing this classic Brazilian attacking line-up of Fred and Bernard

Rian Hoskins: It's going to be a tight match. Germany have picked the right set-up while Brazil's passion shines through. Too close to call.

BBC Coverage

BBC Radio 5 live

For those out and about, you can also listen on BBC Radio 5 live.

Mark Pougatch presents build-up from 20:00 BST, before match commentary with Mike Ingham, Ian Dennis and Danny Mills from 21:00 BST.

You can also listen by clicking on the Live Coverage tab at the top of the page.

Team news

Getty Images

Germany are unchanged - so Miroslav Klose does indeed start up front.

Germany: Neuer, Hoewedes, Hummels, Khedira, Schweinsteiger, Ozil, Klose, Muller, Lahm (c), Kroos, Boateng

Team News

Getty Images

There are three changes for Brazil, with Bernard getting the nod to replace Neymar.

Brazil: Julio Cesar, David Luiz (c), Fernandinho, Marcelo, Hulk, Fred, Oscar, Dante, Luiz Gustavo, Bernard, Maicon

BBC

Who's your money on then? The hosts minus their two best players?Or the visitors who haven't really played well since their opening game?Or are we going all the way to extra-time yet again...?

Former England captain Gary Lineker, MOTD

"I really thought Brazil had got it together in the first half of their quarter-final against Colombia. They played fast, attacking aggressive football - very aggressive at times, the referee could probably have stamped down on that quicker.

"They went 2-0 up in the second half and then it all went wrong. They started booting the ball aimlessly out of play, they got over-excited, they thought they had won it and were wasting time.

"Thiago Silva got a silly second yellow in the tournament and then Neymar got injured with a couple of minutes to go. All of a sudden you are thinking 'can they still do it?'"

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David, Wales: The Germans will win tonight. They often seem not to be doing much and then the ball hits the back of the net. The dangerous thing for them is the pace out of midfield that Brazil has vs the German offside trap. If Germany keep their shape and hold an effective line I believe they will win this match.

Steve Huish in Surbiton: Germany to win this evening. All due respect to Brazil over Neymar but they fouled their way to the semi final. Germany playing good football. The ref has to stop the fouling and give yellows.

Ross in Kent: Evenings like this make me wish England were actually good at football!

Klose to the record

BBC

Is tonight the night? Miroslav Klose was a surprise starter in the quarter-final against France and the Germany forward needs one more goal to become the leading scorer in World Cup history.

Incidentally, while Leeds striker Ross McCormack has joined Fulham for a reported £11m, Klose has only cost a combined total of £3.3m during his career. World Cup top scorer or Championship top scorer? Hmmm...

AP

No window-banging, cap-wearing nonsense from the Germans as they step off their coach. They are here for business.

Just Miroslav Klose's fourth World Cup semi-final...

The entire Brazil squad are in fact wearing those Neymar caps. Like when someone turns up on the morning of a stag do with t-shirts with your name on the back, some look more comfortable in them than others...

BBC

This may be Germany's fourth semi-final in a row, but Brazil do not mess about once they get this far. They have won each and every one of their last six semi-finals. Pedigree everywhere you look tonight...

BBC

BBC World Service sports reporter John Bennett: "Fans outside the Brazil team hotel in Belo Horizonte earlier on. Hope the players had ear plugs - next to a very busy road."

I've just seen footage of that Brazil team coach pulling up a the stadium, and players and team officials could not look more relaxed as they join in with the samba beats coming from the massed crowds, thumping on the windows.

Big Phil is wearing a white baseball cap with #ForcaNeymar on it. Not sure that's a winning look...

AFP

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport Chief Football Writer

"Slogan emblazoned along the side of Brazil's World Cup team coach reads: "Brace Youself - The Sixth Is Coming." They hope - and dream."

Brazil's suspended captain Thiago Silva on Twitter: All of us united for one aim: victory!! #BRA.

No more Neymar

BBC

How will Brazil cope without their number 10?

Will they be Spinal Tap without Nigel Tufnel? Or Genesis without Peter Gabriel?

Wait, would that make Willian Phil Collins? There's a weird image...

Brazil playmaker Neymar, who misses the rest of the World Cup with a fractured bone in his back, has tweeted: "Thanks for all the messages #JogaPraEle (#PlayForHim) from you and from my mates in the national squad. Now I ask them alongside the whole of Brazil: #JogaPraMim (#PlayForMe)."

A massive loss

Getty Images

Brazil's preparations for this semi-final could hardly have been worse.

Captain Thiago Silva misses out through suspension, and main man Neymar - scorer of four goals in the tournament - is injured.

Will they cope? Brazil coach Luiz Felipe Scolari says so.

"Neymar has done his share. Now it's up to us to do our share," the coach said.

"We have accepted what has happened and we are focusing on other things.

"In this match we will be playing not just for ourselves and everything we've ever dreamed of, but also for Neymar and everything he's done for us."

Join the debate at #bbcworldcup

Which emotion will be sweeping across Brazil by the end of play tonight then? Joy or woe?

Will the hosts make it through to the final in Rio on Sunday - as planned - or will it be Germany in the final for the eighth time?

Let us know your pre-match thoughts.

You can text us on 81111 (UK Only), tweet us at #bbcworldcup or post a message on our Facebook page.

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer in Belo Horizonte

"Brazil's fans are forming the traditional guard of honour around the team coach as it makes its way into the Estadio Mineirao. Thousands are lining the streets to lend their support to Luiz Felipe Scolari's team as they stand one step away from what this football-mad country regards as the ultimate - a World Cup Final at its iconic home of the Maracana.

Getty Images

"Germany, playing in a record fourth successive semi-final, stand in the way but they will need all their mental fortitude to deal with the atmosphere around the stadium now, let alone when the game actually starts."

Vote

So, the World Cup is at the business end. 32 teams started. Just Argentina, Brazil, Germany and the Netherlands remain and we want your predictions.

First of all we are asking which teams will reach the World Cup final. You can pick your final via the voting section on this page until 20:45 BST.

Then from 20:00 BST we will ask for your World Cup winner. Terms and conditions can be found here and the results will be announced in this page.

Brazil and Paris St-Germain defender David Luiz on Twitter: "If we look ahead and find obstacles, we should always be reminded that difficulties only present themselves to those who can overcome them. Together, we can!"

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But the short-lived joy of 2002 was all forgotten for fans of the Nationalmannschaft four years later.

Germany hosted a superb World Cup in 2006, and Jurgen Klinsmann's side filled the shoes of host nation admirably, shrugging off reasonably low expectations to progress to the last four.

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There they faced Italy in Dortmund, and it was time for Germany to taste the pain of losing at home, with late goals from Fabio Grosso and Alex Del Piero sending the boys in blue into the final in Berlin.

When it comes to World Cup semi-finals involving the host nation, Germany have been on both ends of the triumph/disaster coin toss in recent years.

Getty Images

In 2002 millions of South Koreans took to the streets to watch Guus Hiddink's men take on the Germans in the last four. Hopes were high but a solitary goal from Michael Ballack proved enough to end the street parties in Seoul and put Ballack and co into the final - where they would eventually lose to Brazil...

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Do the hosts have the most?

Getty Images

The night of the unwelcome guest.

If you've ever thrown a good house party, you'll know the telltale signs. You've spent ages meticulously planning. You've invited the coolest, most popular kids, stocked the fridge to its very limits and spent an extraordinary amount of money on things you would never normally buy. Like breadsticks, houmous and those little cheesey squares.

You try and make sure everyone's having a good time, the music is just right, the lighting spot on. And then, just when the night is reaching its peak, you hope that it all pays off with some big moves on the dancefloor. Alright, your mum's conservatory.

But there's always one guy who outstays his welcome. Making too much noise, drinking too much, getting in the way. If you're not careful they take all the glory and you're left with nothing but angry neighbours, suspicious stains on the carpets and a very expensive repair bill.

Well tonight, Brazil's month-long party hits the big stage. The hosts have put on a great show and are now just one game away from the final. One game away from a shot at greatness.

But who invited the Germans? Can Brazil shift one last unwelcome guest and get them in a taxi home? Or will Joachim Low's side be marching on to the Maracana?

Time for the big tunes. Time for the big one...

EARLY TEAM NEWS

Brazil captain Thiago Silva is banned, so Dante will deputise, but they have Luis Gustavo back from suspension.

With Neymar injured, Brazil could field a central midfield three, or else pick an attack-minded replacement such as Willian or Bernard.

Germany coach Joachim Low must decide whether to recall centre-back Per Mertesacker, who was left out against France for tactical reasons.

Low has reported no fresh injury concerns ahead of the match.