David Luiz produced a stunning free kick from 35 yards as Brazil knocked out South American rivals Colombia 2-1 to set up a semifinal date with Germany, who prevailed over France 1-0, in the FIFA World Cup quarterfinals.
But the fireworks celebrating the home team's victory had barely subsided when the disastrous news of its superstar striker Neymar being ruled out of the tournament was made public.
The 22-year-old superstar striker, who lit up the World Cup with his skill and temperament, fractured a bone in his back (third vertebra) when he was kneed in the back by Colombia defender Juan Camilo Zuniga.
Earlier, in Rio De Janeiro, Mats Hummels' first half header proved decisive as Germany reached the semifinals for the fourth successive time with a solitary goal win over fellow European giants France.
Luiz doubled the Brazilian lead with his spectacular free kick that crashed into the top right of the net in the 69th minute after skipper Thiago Silva's first half strike off a Neymar corner kick had put the hosts ahead.
Colombia pulled one back when James Rodriguez converted a penalty in the 80th minute but the Brazilians held their nerves in the tense remaining minutes to set up a last-four clash with European powerhouse Germany.
The hosts though have some worries going into Tuesday's showdown as skipper Thiago Silva will miss the last-four clash due to double booking, to go with Neymar's ouster. Neymar was carried off on a stretcher following a rough challenge from Zuniga late in the second half. He was taken to a hospital to undergo tests.
In a fast and frenetic quarterfinal clash, Brazil came up with their best show so far in the tournament and Colombia too put up a spirited fight.
Young Colombia striker Rodriguez was gutted as he left the field in tears before exchanging his shirt with Luiz, who consoled the rival player.
Rodriguez scored his sixth goal of the tournament but his penalty was not enough to keep his side alive in the tournament.
Silva struck as early as in the seventh minute when Neymar's corner was missed by Luiz in the middle but the home skipper smashed in with his knee.
