World Cup Semifinals:  Brazil vs. Germany

The first of the semifinals of the World Cup will be played this evening as the host Brazil takes on three times champions Germany. 

Brazil is without their star striker, Neymar who was stretched off the pitch in their quarter final encounter with fellow South Americans Colombia. 

But coach Luiz Felipe Scolari says his side will cope without injured the striker when they face Germany. 

The 22 year old has scored four of Brazil's eight goals at the tournament but will play no further part after he suffered that fractured vertebra in the 2-1 quarter-final win over Colombia. 

Brazil will also be without their captain Thiago Silva, who is suspended for a yellow card accumulation. 

On the other hand, German coach Joachim Low has admitted that Brazil is a strong team and they have other equally talented players. 

He is however worried about robust tackles from the Brazilians and called on the Mexican referee Marco Antonio Rodriguez to be vigilant. 

Germany have been the most consistent team, making a record fourth straight appearance at the semifinals whiles Brazil have been champions on five occasions.

Source: BBC