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Ladybbird · 04-07-14, 22:04

Quarter Finals

Brazil 2 Colombia 1

Daily Mail UK, 4 July 2014

Quote:

Match Zone

Brazil: Julio Cesar, Maicon, Thiago Silva, Luiz, Marcelo, Fernandinho, Paulinho, Oscar, Neymar, Hulk, Fred.
Subs: Jefferson, Dani Alves, Dante, Maxwell, Henrique, Ramires, Hernanes, Willian, Bernard, Jo, Victor.
Colombia: Ospina, Zuniga, Zapata, Yepes, Armero, Guarin, Sanchez Moreno, Cuadrado, Rodriguez, Ibarbo, Gutierrez.
Subs: Vargas, Arias, Carbonero, Aguilar, Mejia, Balanta, Bacca, Ramos, Quintero, Martinez, Valdes, Mondragon.
Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

FULL-TIME: Brazil 2-1 Colombia

90+4min: Huge whistles from the home crowd now as they call for full-time. Brazil are hanging on as Ospina comes to attack a free-kick for Colombia

90+1min: There will be five added minutes as Colombia throw everything at Brazil. Rodriguez again goes down appealing or a penalty and looks furious when he isn't given another.

Brazil substitution
88min: It's another sly foul, and the referee's liberal approach to this game has led to Neymar being carried off the pitch injured in my view.
Zuniga rather cowardly digs his knee into Neymar's lower back and it leads to Brazil's star man going off in some pain on a stretcher. Henrique replaces him. Not even a foul was called following the incident.

Brazil substitution
86min: Brazil are camped inside their own half now, as they make another change in sending on Hernanes for Paulinho.

Spot on: James Rodriguez of Colombia shoots and scores his team's first goal

Hope restored: Colombia's midfielder James Rodriguez celebrates scoring a penalty

Brazil substitution
83min: First change for what is suddenly a nervous Brazil side as Hulk is replaced by Ramires.

GOAL! Brazil 2-1 COLOMBIA

80min: Game on. James Rodriguez stutters in his run up, but after converting his penalty becomes the first player since Rivaldo in 2002 to score in the first five World Cup games of a tournament. It's his sixth of the tournament.
It's another change for Colombia as Juan Quintero replaces Cuadrado.

PENALTY (Colombia)
Julio Cesar is booked after Rodriguez loses Luiz and runs on to a through ball inside the box before being wiped out by the keeper. Colombia are furious as they think it should be a red card - but they do have an avenue back into this game.

From Sportsmail's Matt Barlow in Fortaleza
'Noise levels are up in the Castelao. Brazil fans seem to think they’re into the last four. Hard to disagree on the basis that all Colombia goals which can be ruled out will be ruled out.'

Dive in vain: Colombia's goalkeeper David Ospina is beaten by a shot from Brazil's David Luiz

73min: The cards are flowing now as Yepes is cautioned for Colombia. Brazil have shown an incredibly physical approach to this game, but with a 2-0 lead you can't fault them for it so far.

Colombia substitution
70min: Change for Colombia who are staring at a World Cup exit now as Carlos Bacca replaces Teofilo Gutierrez.

GOAL! BRAZIL 2-0 Colombia

69min: What a costly foul from Rodriguez. It immediately catches the eye of David Luiz who with plenty of topspin buries home the set-piece from 25 yards into the top corner.
The former Chelsea defender runs off to celebrate showing passion I haven't seen from a footballer since Stuart Pearce scored for England in the penalty shootout against Spain at Euro 96.

67min: Colombia have the ball in the back of the net, but after Mario Yepes scores following a goalmouth scramble in the six-yard box, his celebrations are cut by an offside flag.
Meanwhile Rodriguez, who has been kicked of the park, is booked for a late sliding tackle on Hulk.

64min: FINALLY! The first yellow card is produced after Silva is cautioned for blocking Ospina's goal kick. It's a stupid booking too as it rules him out of the semi-final should Brazil get there

62min: Good, now we will get our first yellow card as Neymar is stupidly barged over by Cuadrado...nope...the referee has again opted to not use his cards. This is incredible!

From former World Cup referee and Sportsmail's Graham Poll
'I've been waiting for the weak refereeing to ruin a game and here it is. Brazil looking like Holland from 2010 final. This is not the beautiful game and Spanish ref is doing nothing. He might as well not be there.'

Battle: Fernandinho (left) of Brazil tackles Fredy Guarin of Colombia

59min: I'm not too sure if the referee even wants to give fouls any more let alone yellow cards.
Silva is late with his lunge on Ramos, but somehow avoids conceding a foul - although he does tack a slight knock to his ankle in doing so.
Colombia try to put football back into the game but as Rodriguez tees up a volley like he scored against Uruguay, he instead lays a pass off to Guarin who blasts way over.

56min: The coaches, defensive ones, were probably having kittens during the first half and they have certainly had a say at half-time.
Both teams are defending with a little more organisation now, but sadly it's taken away from the end-to-end barnstorming attacking drama from the first period. More playground football please.

53min: Poor refereeing...no, make that awful refereeing. Neymar clips a worked set-piece into the penalty box which Cristian Zapata rises highest in front of Luiz to clear behind for.
It's good defending, which gets bonus rewards when confusingly a goal kick is given.

Art of attacking: Neymar of Brazil and Juan Zuniga of Colombia compete for the ball

51min: It would be very sad to see Rodriguez bow out of this World Cup without making some sort of meaningful contribution to this game.
The forward is trying though, spinning cleverly on the ball before his through pass just fails to find a team-mate as Julio Cesar collects.

48min: Still the challenges come in but no robust ones in this half as yet as Luiz somehow evades conceding a foul after tripping Ramos.

SECOND-HALF: Brazil restart as Colombia make a change

Victor Ibarbo has been replaced by Adrian Ramos as Colombia search for an avenue back into this match.

Foot loose: Brazil's midfielder Fernandinho (left) raises a high foot to Colombia's James Rodriguez

Neymar vs James Rodriguez - the half-time stats

It looks like Brazil's star man slightly has the edge in the battle between the two No. 10s

Chaos rules in Fortaleza as Brazil lead 1-0 in a half which somehow didn't have many more goals.
And any cards for that matter. It's been wild at times, but the challenges are becoming more robust and to at least set the bar, the referee is going to have to produce a card at some point.
Sticking to the football, Brazil deservedly lead a game where there appears to be little attacking discipline

HALF-TIME: Brazil 1-0 Colombia

44min: Nope. We are no closer to seeing a set-piece special as Neymar curls across goal and wide of the top corner. Ospina was rooted to the spot but I don't know if it's because he already knew it wasn't troubling his net.
On another note, I'm starting to wonder if the referee has forgotten his cards as Zuniga escapes a booking after raising his studs to Hulk's knee, while Fernandinho produces his new party trick of avoiding yellows by after a clumsy challenge on Rodriguez.

43min: It's about time we saw a decent free-kick so right on cue, Neymar wins a free-kick just left of centre after being tripped by Juan Zuniga.

40min: Wow, this half has zipped by. I'm quite astonished it's only 1-0, but from a sporting contest it's pleasing to see Colombia are getting back into this after a very nervous start.

Missing man: James Rodriguez (centre) of Colombia failed to influence large moments of the first half as he is tackled by Fernandinho of Brazil

37min: Rodriguez's free-kick is easily cleared though as the Brazil defence, which encroached by about five yards, managed to block his shot.

34min: Defences still look a little slapstick from both teams as Armero's cross picks out an unmarked Cuadrado at the back post.
The Colombia midfielder fails properly control the ball, but Colombia do win a free-kick after Fernandinho is penalised for raising a high foot on the edge of the box.

From Sportsmail's Matt Barlow in Fortaleza
'Colombia bench not happy at Luiz there. They felt he went too far in his pursuit of Zapata. No replay of that incident form the Brazilian telly.'
The defender certainly seemed to leave some 'afters' in what was an off-the-ball incident. I'd like to see it again as the real-time showing didn't show a great angle of it.

28min: And the Brazil bombardment continues. Hulk's clever reverse pass finds Marcelo in space on the edge of the box, but his sliced shot across the target is helped over the crossbar by the Fred.
Marcelo is soon involved again, this time playing a clever volley cut-back for Hulk who, in clear space, can only again fire across goal with Ospina parrying to safety.
This game could so easily be about 5-2 to Brazil given the chances we have had.

Case for the defence: David Luiz of Brazil challenges Teofilo Gutierrez of Colombia

25min: This game is everything that France vs Germany wasn't! Brazil counter down the right but after the ball is fed into Paulinho inside the box, the Spurs midfielder fails to get his shot away as he is shackled by a Colombia defender.

From FIFAWorldCup on Twitter

22min: What an interception from Silva! Colombia finally show the attacking venom that's got them into the quarter-finals as they break forward but an attempted square pass into the box is crucially intercepted by the Brazil goal scorer. What a start to the game he has had.

20min: If ever a side looked like they were choking on the big occasion. Colombia are playing like a side totally in their shell in the first 20 minutes. Rodriguez can hardly get an attacking touch on the ball.
But then Brazil are flying! Hulk collects a short pass from Neymar as he runs into the box, before his shot is well parried clear by David Ospina who again has to react to keep out Oscar's long range effort.

Losing it: Neymar (left) slipped over as he celebrated Brazil's opening goal

16min: I'm starting to wonder what Fernandinho has to do to get booked in this tournament. The Manchester City defender was extremely fortunate not to get a yellow card in the last game against Chile and he somehow evades punishment here after a needless barge into James Rodriguez.

13min: Trailing Brazil in Brazil is a huge mountain to climb, but not an impossible one.
The Brazil defence has looked far from certain during this tournament and Juan Cuadrado picks up a loose ball on the edge of the box before firing just wide of the near post.

10min: Well I hope the free-kicks improve at some point this evening. Now Colombia have a set-piece 25 yards out but Fredy Guarin's effort is even worse than Neymar's as he strikes miles off target.

Caught napping: Thiago Silva peels off Carlos Sanchez to score Brazil's opening goal

10min: Well I hope the free-kicks improve at some point this evening. Now Colombia have a set-piece 25 yards out but Fredy Guarin's effort is even worse than Neymar's as he strikes miles off target.

GOAL! BRAZIL 1-0 Colombia

7min: Fortaleza erupts, Colombia collapse and Brazil have the lead! From a corner, Neymar curls a lofted cross towards the far post where Thiago Silva casually loses his marker Carlos Sanchez to tap home from close range.

5min: Expectation builds as Fred wins a cheap free-kick out of Carlos Sanchez 25 yards out, but Neymar disappoints by curling a weak set-piece wide of the post. I'm sure that won't be the last we will see of him...

Fouled: Brazil's forward Fred (right) reacts after he is failed by Colombia's Carlos Sanchez

From Sportsmail's Neil Ashton in Fortaleza
'An atmosphere like you cannot believe here in Fortaleza. The Brazil fans haven’t stopped singing since the teams walked out for the national anthems. Incredible.'

3min: Brazil have looked to build up play on the right early on, with Neymar drifting over to take on Pablo Armero.
It's Paulinho who is the first Brazil player chasing a pass down the flank though, but his attempted low cross is blocked by Mario Yepes.

Save the best to last: Neymar (left) and Hulk of Brazil take the field before kick-off

Sending out a message: Colombia and Brazil players stand behind a FIFA banner before the start of the game

In standard fashion now, Brazil walk out with a hand on the shoulder of the player in front as they are greeted by huge cheers from the local fans as the sun sets over the Estadio Castelao.
Be prepared for quite a booming national anthem from Brazil, but first, both captains will read out an anti-discrimination message - much like the France vs Germany game earlier.

Grow into the shirt: A Brazil fan holds a Hulk doll prior to the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Quarter Final match, in support of striker Hulk

FIXTURES (ALL TIMES showing are US.ET)

Ladybbird · 05-07-14, 11:09

Neymar OUT of World Cup with Broken Bone in his Back after Suffering Injury in Brazil's Quarter-Final Victory over Colombia

Juan Zuniga's challenge three minutes from time left Neymar hurt and in tears
He was carried off on a stretcher and taken to hospital before team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar confirmed his tournament is over
Neymar does not need surgery but is expected to be out for at least four weeks
Crowds gather outside Sao Carlos Hospital after Neymar is taken in
Brazil progress after 2-1 win despite Colombia comeback
Players from all countries tweet 'Get well soon' messages

Daily Mail UK, 5 July 2014

Brazil superstar Neymar will miss the remainder of the World Cup with a broken bone in his back.
The 22-year-old, who had scored four times to lead his country to the quarter-finals, was carried off on a stretcher in the closing stages of Friday's 2-1 win over Colombia and taken to hospital.

And team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar told local media in Brazil that Neymar will not kick another ball at the finals, expecting his recovery period to be at least four weeks.

'It's not serious in the sense that it doesn't need surgery, but he'll need to immobilize it to recover,' he told SportTV. 'Unfortunately, he's not going to be able to play.

VIDEO: Scroll down to watch Neymar at hospital as his World Cup dream is crushed

Agony: Neymar lies in agony after being kneed in the back just three minutes from the end

Stretchered off: Neymar is carried away by medics leaving all Brazilian fans in a state of panic

Carried away: Neymar was stretchered off the pitch and taken to hospital after Brazil's quarter-final win

The damage: Brazilian television stations obtained an x-ray of Neymar's back and highlighted the broken bone

Welcome back: There were emotional scenes as Neymar was greeted by his team-mates upon returning to the base at Teresopolis

Cynical: With the ball nowhere near Juan Zuniga smashes his knee into the lower part of Neymar's back

Man down: The Barcelona forward falls to the ground after the challenge that rules him out of the semi-final

End of the line: Neymar is carried down the tunnel with his World Cup over

Neymar arrives at hospital as his World Cup dream is crushed

Neymar clutches his face as he leaves hospital clearly in pain

'The exact time (to play again) can be four to six weeks, but it is too early to confirm this. Let's wait for other tests. This is the first diagnosis we had. Initially, we know he will not be able to play.’

Neymar flew back to Rio de Janeiro from Fortaleza with the rest of his team-mates following the match and was then transported by ambulance to the team's training base at Teresopolis.

The Barcelona forward had been struggling in the build-up to the all-South American clash with thigh and knee strains but was passed fit to start.
But he was carried off three minutes from the end after Juan Zuniga's knee landed in his lower back leaving him in tears.

Zuniga said: 'It was a normal move. I never meant to hurt a player. I was on the field, playing for the shirt from my country, not without the intent to injure. I was just defending my shirt.'

Brazil manager Luiz Felipe Soclari, speaking before Lasmar's interview, said: 'I don't think he'll be able to play in the next match.

Anxious wait: Brazil fans sit outside the Sao Carlos Hospital after Neymar is taken in

National icon: The Barcelona forward is by far the most popular player in Luiz Felipe Scolari's squad

Bittersweet: The elation at the victory was soon dampened as news filtered through of Neymar's injury

'He has been sent to a private clinic with the doctor because he was kneed in his lower back. He was crying in pain. It won't be easy for him to recover based on the fact that it's a back injury and with the pain he's in. Let's hope everything goes OK.
‘It might be that he could play in the final but at this moment, the next match is on July 8, I don’t think it is likely he can do it. But he is young, he has energy, he leads his life the right way and does all the right things. Let’s wait for the examination and see if there is something in the next 48 hours that can be done. In my opinion it’s going to be difficult.

'Us and them played a violent game, It was a corner kick when Neymar went in front and he came to stop the ball, but the referee decided and there is no point thinking about a punishment.

Complaints: Defender Marcelo gesticulates as his team's star man lies prone on the ground in Fortaleza

Treatment: Neymar was seen to on the pitch but had to be removed on a stretcher in the quarter-final

'We just hope that it isn't serious. But we just hope that in two or three days he will be able to rejoin us.
‘For the match against Germany it will be very difficult for Neymar to play based on what the doctor said. But we are not hopeful of this and if the injury is serious.
'It might be that he could play in the final but at this moment, the next match is on the 8th, I don’t think it is likely he can do it.
'But he is young, he has energy, he leads his life the right way and does all the right things. Let’s wait for the examination and see if there is something in the next 48 hours that can be done. In my opinion it’s going to be difficult.'

Crowds of Brazilian fans swelled outside the Sao Carlos Hospital in Fortaleza as news filtered through that their hero had been taken there.

Germany star Mesut Ozil, who is likely to start the semi-final against Brazil on Tuesday night, sent Neymar his best wishes on hearing the news, tweeting: 'Neymar, i am unhappy. get well soon.'

Perfect 10: Brazil fans were pinning their hopes on Neymar producing the goods in the latter stages

Captain Thiago Silva had opened the scoring in the first half before David Luiz's bullet free kick doubled Brazil's advantage after the break.
James Rodriguez pulled a goal back from the spot with 10 minutes remaining but Jose Pekerman's side could not find an equaliser.
Brazil will already be without the suspended Silva for the last-four showdown in Belo Horizonte.

THE WORLD TWEETS ITS SYMPATHY FOR NEYMAR

'Neymar, I hope you recover very soon friend!' - Neymar's Barcelona team-mate and Argentina superstar Lionel Messi wrote on his Facebook page.

'Sending a big hug to this phenomenon of current football, @neymarjr' - former Brazil left-back Roberto Carlos.

'Hate to hear the news on Neymar! What a player. Have a speedy recovery/Get well asap man! #HesABeast #MyKidsFavPlayer' - basketball player LeBron James of the Miami Heat.

'All our support to @neymarjr! #ForcaNeymar' - Brazil president Dilma Rousseff.

'Have strength brother. @neymarjr we are together with you, we love you' - Brazil and Chelsea midfielder Willian.

'We had a great victory but also a great loss. Have strength @neymarjr, we partner with you always!' - Brazil striker Jo, formerly of Manchester City and Everton.

'Dear @Neymarjr, have strength, we are praying that your recovery is quick #forcaneymar' - Brazilian model Gisele Bundchen.

'Good recovery Neymar, God Bless you' - former Brazil international Gilberto Silva.

'Happy with our victory today, can't wait to face #Brasil, sad for @NeymarJr hope you get better soon #ForcaNeymar #eTois #poldi #worldcup' - Arsenal attacker Lukas Podolski, whose Germany side take on Brazil in the semi-finals.

'@neymarjr brother! I am with you! Force!' - Italy striker Mario Balotelli.

'My brother @neymarjr - me, Luca, my family and a lot of people in this world are praying and hoping for your fast recovery!!' - former Brazil international Kaka.

'Strength, Brother! @neymarjr' Brazil and Tottenham midfielder Paulinho posted, along with a picture collage.

'We have one more reason to play with heart in this cup. Neymar, rest assured that our group loves you and give life to win this title for you. You were and continue to be the ace and the soul of our team. The whole of Brazil is praying for you!' Brazil team-mate Fred, whose Facebook post included a drawing of Neymar being surrounded by fans.

'Neymar, i am unhappy. get well soon' - Germany midfielder Mesut Ozil.

Iced: Brazil's World Cup challenge will be significantly more difficult if they are without their key man

Concern: Colombian playmaker James Rodrigues shows sympathy to his opposite number

Neymar Stretchered Through Hospital by Worried Staff

Neymar Clutches his Face as he Leaves Hospital Clearly in Pain

Ladybbird · 05-07-14, 18:05

Quarter Finals

Argentina 1 Belgium 0:
Higuain Finally Breaks his Duck as Sweet Strike Catches Red Devils Cold in Brasilia

Daily Mail UK, 5 July 2014

Quote:

Argentina: Romero, Zabaleta, Demichelis, Garay, Basanta, Biglia, Mascherano, Lavezzi, Messi, Di Maria, Higuain.
Subs: Orion, Campagnaro, Gago, Perez, Maxi Rodriguez, Augusto Fernandez, Federico Fernandez, Palacio, Alvarez, Aguero, Andujar.
Belgium: Courtois, Alderweireld, Van Buyten, Kompany, Vertonghen, Fellaini, Witsel, Mirallas, De Bruyne, Hazard, Origi.
Subs: Mignolet, Vermaelen, Lukaku, Mertens, Defour, Lombaerts, Dembele, Januzaj, Chadli, Ciman, Bossut.
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli (Italy)

FULL-TIME: Argentina 1-0 Belgium

90+4min: Messi with a chance to seal it! No! The Barcelona forward runs in one-on-one after a counter but sees his shot superbly blocked by the onrushing Courtois.
At the other end Lukaku's low cut-back falls for Witsel 20 yards out who volleys over. That's Belgium's chances gone you feel.

90+3min: Argentina are in full out defensive mode now, but it isn't one of desperation. Without trying o put a curse on it, Sabella's team have looked very organised in dealing with Belgium's attacks.

90min: Boos from the Brazil and Belgium fans as Perez runs into Pablo Zabaleta - going down and needing treatment in the process. That shaves off a few more seconds as five extra minutes are added.

88min: There's a big physical presence in the Belgium attack now with Fellaini and Lukaku, but both don't really have the officials on their side.
Vertonghen's long ball looks to have found the Chelsea striker inside the box, but after Jose Basanta loses out in a tussle, he goes to ground for little reason - winning a free-kick in the process. Very poor officiating

85min: It's route one, but at least Belgium are giving this a go. Kompany hoofs the ball for Lukaku on the edge of the box, whose knockdown results in De Bruyne's low 20 yard shot deflecting just wide of the post.

Foot loose: Belgium's Vincent Kompany (left) and Argentina's Lionel Messi fight for the ball

83min: That's a rare sight - the Argentina full-backs bombing forward. Pablo Zabaleta manages to reach Belgium's right byline but his back post cross is just too far over the head of Palacio as Belgium bring the ball out.

Argentina substitution

81min: Final change from Argentina as Higuain takes the long route off, shaking hands with the referee, before to a loud standing ovation from the Argentina fan

78min: This is a very France-esque approach from Belgium, who are not playing like a side who are just over 10 minutes away from being dumped out the World Cup.
Argentina are hardly making it hard for them as they not really attacking themselves, but with a goal lead, they don't really need to. It's all on Belgium and so far they are not delivering.

Belgium substitution
75min: Final change for Belgium as Nacer Chadli comes on for the disappointing Hazard.

Held off: Belgium's defender and captain Vincent Kompany (left) vies with Argentina's forward Gonzalo Higuain

74min: Belgium are starting to huff and puff but they are getting no closer to troubling Romero, as Lukaku's knock on for Fellaini inside the box results in the Argentina defence clearing.

Argentina substitution

71min: Just under 20 minutes left and Argentina make a second switch as Lavezzi departs in favour of Rodrigo Palacio.

64min: At least Belgium have shown some fight since making those changes but still Romero remains untroubled in his goal, can Belgium apply a little bit more pressure to make a game of it?

61min: It's been the story of Belgium's tournament - make changes and watch the rewards come in.
The Red Devils have their best chance of the second half as Vertonghen crosses high into the box where Fellaini nods over the bar.

Belgium double substitution

59min: Here come the Belgium changes though as Mertens and Lukaku replaces a rather unhappy Mirallas, who stamped the floor while walking off, and the anonymous Origi.

Clipped: Argentina's forward Ezequiel Lavezzi (left) was brought down by Belgium's defender Vincent Kompany

58min: Belgium are going to make these changes soon because as the hour mark approaches, Romero has still hardly a save to make.
Meanwhile Argentina have some injury concerns as Ezequiel Lavezzi needs treatment after being caught on the ankle by Kompany.

55min: Brilliant from Higuain! The striker nutmegs Kompany as he charges at goal 25 yards out, but as he meets one-on-one with Courtois he fires high past the keeper and off the crossbar.
He should really score, especially after doing the hard work in getting past the Red Devils captain beforehand. That's the last warning fr rMarc Wilmots who has Dries Mertens and Lukaku now ready to come on.

53min: First yellow card of the game for Eden Hazard, and it's probably out of frustration given the lack of time we have seen him on the ball today.
The Chelsea midfielder leaves his foot in on a a tackle with Lucas Biglia and a yellow card is the easy option for the referee.

51min: If anything it's Argentina who will get the next goal as Higuain narrowly misses out on doubling his tally.
The striker cuts inside from the left on the byline, before his low shot towards the near post deflects off Daniel van Buyten before flying just wide of the near post.

48min: Early threat from Argentina as they win a free-kick 30 yards out, but Messi's lofted pass to the back post is overhit and too far in front of Jose Basanta as the ball bounces out for a goal kick.

SECOND-HALF: Argentina restart as both sides remain unchanged
...but Lukaku has spent the entire half-time period warming up. The Chelsea striker should be on pretty soon i would imagine.

Leap to the left: Belgium's goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois dives to his left to try and keep out Lionel Messi's free-kick

PLAYER WATCH: Divock Origi (Belgium)
Well... I say player watch, there hasn't been much at all to see from Divock Origi.
The Belgium striker hardly saw the ball at all in the first period, with most of his touches coming from the centre-spot - taking a kick-off twice...
Here's his heat map from the first half, Time for Romelu?

So can Belgium produce a turnaround in the second half? It would have to be a historic one.
Argentina haven't lost a World Cup game after scoring first since 1958. Sabella's team perhaps deservedly at the break, as their attacking play has looked far more dangerous.
Belgium's has been close to non-existent though and it wouldn't surprise me to see Romelu Lukaku on for the second half.

HALF-TIME: Argentina 1-0 Belgium

Over the bar: Argentina's Lionel Messi (out of picture) fires over the bar from his 19-yard free-kick

45min: There will be two added minutes before the break. It's been a slow burner so far, but the potential is there...

42min: And now there's something for the Argentina defence to consider too. Jan Vertonghen whips a superb out-swinging cross towards the near post, which a diving Kevin Mirallas throws his body at to just nod wide.

40min: Too close it is - even for Messi. The Barcelona forward agrees that the dip over the wall is too difficult, so instead opts for power to blast towards the top corner on Thibaut Courtois's side - firing just over in the process.

39min: Big chance for Argentina now though as Messi dances past Axel Witsel before Fellaini has two kicks to bring him down on the very edge of the box for a free-kick.
Some may this free-kick is just too close to goal - it's going to be hard to get the dip to sneak over the wall and under the crossbar that's for sure.

36min: Belgium seem to be struggling with Argentina's through balls so far but we still just have the one goal to speak of. In truth the game has gone a little flat since Di Maria picked up his injury. Plenty of similarities with yesterday's clash between France and Germany so far - and that's not a good thing.

Packed out: Spectators inside the Garrincha Stadium watch the quarter-final action

Argentina substitution
33min: Well I thought Di Maria had recovered. The Real Madrid midfielder is down again and this time he isn't coming back on to the field as he is replaced by Enzo Perez.

31min: Di Maria seems to have recovered from that knock as he jogs back on to the field, while local fans boo after Argentina play a back-pass to Romero. Brazil fans really are against slow negative play.

29min: Trouble for Argentina. After Di Maria runs on to a through ball, the midfielder cuts on to his left foot before seeing his shot well blocked by last-man Kompany from 20 yards.
Straight after the shot though, the midfielder went down injured and is now getting treatment on the field.

26min: Better from Belgium. De Bruyne collects a pass 25 yards out, and with a sight of goal lets fly with rising effort which Romero dives to the right to parry clear. It was a comfortable height for the keeper but still a smart stop.

Standing tall: Marouane Fellaini of Belgium barges Lionel Messi of Argentina off the ball

23min: Belgium have all the ball now, but they look very short of ideas as Argentina look happy to wait for a mistake and hit on the counter.
Alejandro Sabella's side really do look confident at this stage, with Di Maria showing an array of flicks and tricks to get past Marouane Fellaini and another Belgium team-mate.

20min: Belgium have just started to come into this game more in the last 10 minutes, but crucially Sergio Romero is enjoying a rather untroubled time in goal right now. Divock Origi has barely had a touch in attack.

17min: I'm starting to think De Bruyne should leave corner taking duty to someone else...anyone else for that matter. Another delivery from the midfielder fails to find a team-mate as Argentina survive another set-piece.

14min: Belgium can't even create anything from a set-piece at the moment. Vincent Kompany sprints 70 yards up the field to meet a De Bruyne corner, but an awful delivery from the former Chelsea man which finds nobody leaves the Belgium captain shaking his head in disgust as he chases back.

11min: And Belgium haven't responded. Argentina fans are bouncing around like the semi-final spot is already theirs.
Judging by how their team continue to press for a second goal, you can see why. It's been a terrific start from the two-time winners.

Time for the fans: Sergio Aguero of Argentina greets supporters inside the Garrincha Stadium

Instinctive: Gonzalo Higuain of Argentina scores his team's first goal on the volley

Calling No.9: Argentina's forward Gonzalo Higuain (right) celebrates scoring the opening goal

GOAL! ARGENTINA 1-0 Belgium

8min: That's magnificent from Argentina. Lionel Messi's swift feet see him dodge a couple of challenges in midfield, and he starts a move which ends with a pass deflected towards Gonzalo Higuain on the edge of the box
With brilliant technique the Real Madrid striker volleys across goal into the bottom corner. Brilliant effort.

7min: Belgium haven't quite going yet as it's Argentina that have taken control of the ball and played with a little swagger - a swagger we have seen precious little of in this tournament.

4min: Angel di Maria may have scored in the last game but he was woeful for the most part in the last 16.
Signs are that he has improved today though, as he skips past a Kevin de Bruyne challenge before cutting inside and seeing his 18-yard shot blocked.

Sending out a message: Players of Argentina and Belgium hold up a Say No To Racism banner before kick-off

KICK-OFF: Belgium get us going in Brasilia

Out come the players in a sunny Brasilia
The teams are out and as like yesterday, both captains will read out an anti-discrimination message before the anthems.

Backing Belgium, chaps? Brazilian soccer fans hold up a banner saying good bye to Argentina

BLAST FROM THE PAST: Argentina 2-0 Belgium (1986)
It could have so easily been England facing Belgium in the 1986 semi-final but after a mixture of magic and dark arts from Diego Maradona to see off the Three Lions, it was Argentina facing Belgium in the last four.
Belgium defeated the South Americans 1-0 in 1982, but Maradona and Co got their revenge four years later as Diego scored twice to defeat the Red Devils.

Leading the way: Vincent Kompany of Belgium leads the team out for a warm up

Wrong direction: Belgium's forward Eden Hazard (C) warms up before the start of the quarter-final

Ladybbird · 05-07-14, 23:21

HOLLAND 0 COSTA RICA 0:

(Holland Win 4-3 on Penalties)

Krul Twist Ends Costa Rica Adventure as Holland's Sub Keeper Saves Two Penalties
-After Being Brought on Just for the Shootout

Quote:

Holland: Cillessen, De Vrij, Vlaar, Martins Indi, Depay, Wijnaldum, Blind, Kuyt, Sneijder, Van Persie, Robben.
Subs: Vorm, De Jong, Janmaat, de Guzman, Verhaegh, Veltman, Kongolo, Clasie, Lens, Fer, Huntelaar, Krul.
Costa Rica: Navas, Gamboa, Acosta, Diaz, Gonzalez, Ruiz, Borges, Tejeda, Bolanos, Campbell, Umana.
Subs: Pemberton, Duarte, Myrie, Barrantes, Francis, Granados, Brenes, Miller, Calvo, Urena, Cubero, Cambronero.
Referee: Ravshan Irmatov (Uzbekistan)

FULL-TIME: Holland 0-0 Costa Rica (AET) Holland win 4-3 on penalties

Holland 4-3 Costa Rica
Michael Umana saved

Holland 4-3 Costa Rica
Dirk Kuyt scores

Holland 3-3 Costa Rica
Christian Bolanos scores

Holland 3-2 Costa Rica
Wesley Sneijder scores

Holland 2-2 Costa Rica
Giancarlo Gonzalez scores

Holland 2-1 Costa Rica
Arjen Robben scores

Holland 1-1 Costa Rica
Bryan Ruiz saved

Holland 1-1 Costa Rica
Robin van Persie scores

Holland 0-1 Costa Rica
Celso Borges scores

Surely one of the most dramatic penalty shootouts is on the way...
...and it looks like Costa Rica are going first.

Costa Rica scored all five spot-kicks in their shootout over Greece in the previous round, while Holland have a shoot-out record which (somehow) is just as bad as England's.
Their only victory was the last one they competed in as they defeated Sweden at Euro 2004.

All eyes on Tim Krul now, whose penalty record for Newcastle reads 20 faced and just two saved. Hmmmmmm.
Hardly the record of a penalty specialist.

FULL-TIME: Holland 0-0 Costa Rica (Penalty shoot-out to be contested)

Penalty cameo: Tim Krul of Holland prepares to enter the game in extra time in place of Jasper Cillessen

Holland substitution
120+1min: It's actually happening! Louis van Gaal is sending goalkeeper Tim Krul on for the penalty shootout as he replaces Cillessen - who looks dejected as he jogs off the pitch.

119min: What am I watching?! This is borderline ridiculous! Sneijder has already beaten Navas once to hit the post, but after beating the Costa Rica keeper again, rattles the crossbar from 25 yards out.

117min: Was that the moment?! Costa Rica are chasing a winner now as Urena twists and turns inside the box before his close range shot is blocked clear by Cillessen.
It's a brilliant save by a keeper who has done so little for most of the night. He at the very least has delayed a national embarsemment for Holland!

116min: A late salvo for Costa Rica?! Goodness knows where this has come from but approaching the two hour mark they win their first corner.
However Bolanos wastes it by sending his far post delivery out for a goal kick.

114min: From the interesting to the brilliant. Arjen Robben is clearly in awe at the job Jorge Luis Pinto is doing, as during a spare moment he puts his arms around the shoulder of the Costa Rica boss who appears to share a joke with the Holland star.

112min: Huntelaar was the hero last time out but he is the villain so far as he is booked for jumping with a leading arm challenging Navas.
Interesting scenes on the Dutch touchline as Tim Krul is warming up for Holland. A penalty specialist for Oranje?

110min: It's not just happening for Holland. Van Persie tries to play a through ball for Huntelaar but the substitute fails to read the run and Costa Rica survive again.

No penalty: Costa Rica's Marco Urena (right) goes down under a challenge from Holland's Ron Vlaar

107min: Free-kick to Holland on the right after Acosta brings down Robben near the right byline. Robben continues to cause panic but los Ticos continue to hold out.

SECOND-HALF: Costa Rica restart as Holland make a second change

About 20-30 minutes too late in my opinion, but Klaas-Jan Huntelaar replaces Bruno Martins Indi. Attack, attack from the Dutch now.

Costa Rica could have had a penalty in that first period, but they are now just 15 minutes away from a penalty shootout.
That's 15 minutes away from a brilliant opportunity to reach a World Cup semi-final - who would have thought this was possible before the game?

HALF-TIME: Holland 0-0 Costa Rica

Testing times: Holland boss Louis van Gaal (centre) gives instructions to his players during the extra time period

105min: Two minutes will be added on to the first half - Holland still chasing a winner which doesn't look like coming.

104min: ...but Robben's free-kick strikes the wall. Put Sneijder back on those set-pieces, LVG.

Needing treatment: Goalkeeper Keylor Navas of Costa Rica lies on the pitch as referee Ravshan Irmatov speaks to Costa Rica players

103min: Diaz, who is fortunate to be on the pitch, is unfortunate to concede a free-kick as a shot hits his shoulder, only for him to be penalised for hand ball . Robben stands over 25 yards out and right to goal..

101min: Costa Rica may be rookies at this level but they are playing every trick in the book to run down the time. Martins Indi stupidly barges into Ruiz (and he's on a yellow too by the way) and it allows the Fulham player to stay down and bring a stoppage to play stun any Holland momentum.

98min: Big debate for a Costa Rica penalty! Urena is looking for the spot-kick as he tumbles under pressure from Vlaar inside the Holland box - but there was contact from the Aston Villa defender.

Costa Rica substitution
97min: Here comes Los Ticos final switch as Tejeda is replaced by Jose Cubero. Don't get injured now, Navas!

96min: Navas is back to his feet for now, and Costa Rica are preparing to make a final change - an outfield one.

94min: Ah right on cue, Robben whips a corner into the centre, and while Vlaar does well to get his header on target - you know who parries the ball behind for a corner.
Navas is in trouble now though, he makes a (very) rare mistake to come and miss punching for a corner but he has injured his knee in doing so and play has stopped while he receives treatment on the pitch.

93min: The last three minutes of normal time were mental, the first 180 seconds of extra time, not so much. Costa Rica look out on their feet but the Dutch have cooled their urgency to grab a winner at this stage.

EXTRA-TIME: Holland restart the extra 30 minutes

Last line: Yeltsin Tejeda of Costa Rica clears the ball off the line following Robin van Persie's shot

FULL-TIME: Holland 0-0 Costa Rica (Extra-time to be played)

Tripped: Arjen Robben falls while being held by Costa Rica's Christian Bolanos

90+3min: How has this ball stayed out?! Blind's ball across the six-yard-box evades THREE Holland attackers, before Van Persie at the back post slots a finish at an open goal.
But Yeltsin Tejeda on the line to deflect the ball on to the crossbar and out to safety. Is this Costa Rica's night?! Incredible scenes!

90+1min: Diaz you lucky boy! The defender clumsily trips Robben on the corner of the box - and he's already on a yellow.
The referee awards a free-kick but really should be giving Diaz his marching orders with a second yellow card. As it is, he is let off.

90min: There will be four added minutes, which as it stands will be 240 seconds of Holland pressing for a dramatic late winner.

88min: What a miss! Sneijder's chipped ball to the back post is perfect for Van Persie who somehow completely mis-kicks from six yards out as the ball bounces out of play.
Jaws fall to the ground all over the world as one of the game's best finishers somehow blows a golden opportunity to score.

87min: Costa Rica are starting to look tired at the back as Holland begin to find gaps.
Crucially though it's just gaps and not goals as the moment and we appear to be heading for extra-time, even if Holland are camped inside the Costa Rica half.

84min: Navas again to the rescue! Surrounded by Costa Rica players in the box, Van Persie dummies two with a superb turn but his shot from an acute angle is blocked by the keeper. There is just no way past him!

Early end: Costa Rica's defender Cristian Gamboa is carried off the pitch on a stretcher

83min: OFF THE POST! Sneijder's near post free-kick finally beats Navas but not the woodwork as his strike bounces off the frame of the goal and back into play before Costa Rica scramble the loose ball clear.

81min: Penalty? No, just a free-kick as Robben shows an incredible turn of pace to dart past Gonzalez who brings out his arm to haul down Robben on the very corner of the box.
His attempted clothesline earns him a booking and a suspension from the semi-final should Los Ticos get there.

Costa Rica substitution

78min: So it appears Gamboa cannot continue. The Costa Rica star has gone down to the turf again inside his own box and is again going off on a stretcher - only this time he isn't coming back on. David Myrie will replace him

Holland substitution
76min: First change for Holland as Depay is replaced by Jeremain Lens. Will it be another Mexican style late show from Louis van Gaal's team?

Seeing yellow: Bruno Martins Indi (right) gets a yellow card after pulling Bryan Ruiz's shirt

74min: Gamboa's fine alright - he's just conceded a foul for raising a high boot, nearly kicking off Blind's head with a scissors kick!
Sneijder's free-kick from the left is sweetly struck but Ron Vlaar can only power a header over the bar.

72min: Well, much to my surprise, Gamboa is back on and he looks like he will run that injury off. Holland are starting to look nervous.
It's been such a tight game that you feel one goal for either side will be enough to snatch a semi-final spot. The tension really is starting to grow.

70min: Huge concern for Costa Rica. Gamboa has troubled Blind this evening but in battling for a header with the Dutch wing back, lands awkwardly on his ankle.
The stretcher is on to take the forward off the pitch, and it doesn't look good for his hopes of taking any further part.

No penalty: Holland's Burno Martins Indi surived a penalty appeal after appearing to nudge Costa Rica's Joel Campbell over inside the box

68min: Desperate but effective defending. Robben plays a one-two with Van Persie inside the box, but as he goes to collect the return pass, Urena is back to boot the ball behind for a corner. With just over 20 minutes left, it's still 0-0.

Costa Rica substitution

66min: First change and surprisingly it's for Costa Rica as Campbell is replaced by Marcos Urena. The Arsenal star looks less than happy as he trudges off.

65min: Martins Indi finally sees yellow as his shirt pull on Ruiz gives away another free-kick, 30 yards out with this time the cross in the box being headed over.

62min: Bolanos makes all the signs of a player attempting a cross from the free-kick, but he makes it slightly too obvious and his resulting shot at goal is miles off target. For his sake I hope he doesn't play poker - he isn't fooling nobody.

No way past: Costa Rica's Giancarlo Gonzalez defends as Holland's Robin van Persie attempts a shot on goal

61min: And that's why Holland can't rest on their laurels. Diaz leads a very rare counter attack down the left, before his low cross results in Bruno Martins Indi bundling over Joel Campbell in the box.
The Arsenal forward seems to make the most of it as play is sensibly waved on, but he does win a free-kick 30 yards out a few moments later.

59min: There is nothing coming forward for Costa Rica now, but they are not being troubled defensively. I'm sure there is more ammo in this Dutch side because they look ever so feeble in attack right now.

56min: So much for my impatience a few minutes ago as the Dutch pressure begins to rise. Van Persie wins a corner after a menacing charge down the right before Costa Rica manage to clear the resulting far post set-piece.

Obstructed: Costa Rica's defender Cristian Gamboa (bottom) trips Holland's Arjen Robben

53min: Clever, but Costa Rica read it well. Robben plays a short sharp pass to the edge of the box but Bryan Ruiz reads the free-kick well to close down recipient Sneijder who hurried, blasts a first-time shot way over the bar.

Blow off the cobwebs: Holland goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen claims a cross from Costa Rica's Junior Diaz

52min: Robben takes a tumble, but he can't help this one as Michael Umana sends him flying with a clumsy sliding challenge which sees him pick up a yellow card and gives the Dutch a free-kick to the right of the box.

51min: Wow, this is another slow start from Holland. So much so that even I'm thinking about making substitutions and I'm not even the Holland manager. I don't see too many game changers on the Dutch bench though...

48min: I expected Holland to come quick out the blocks, but it's Cillessen whose called into action first as he plucks Diaz floating cross from the left out the air. Standard stuff, really but then it has been another nervy opener to a half.

Strike it lucky: Wesley Sneijder attempts a shot on goal for Holland

SECOND-HALF: No changes from either side as Holland restart

Pick of the bunch? Costa Rica's goalkeeper Keylor Navas saves Wesley Sneider's first half free-kick for Holland

HALF-TIME: Holland 0-0 Costa Rica

45min: One added minute to a first half which has seen Costa Rica 'do a job' as they say in the business on Holland so far.

42min: Navas isn't just a shot stopper too. The Costa Rica keeper readx a Robben through pass superbly as he races off his line to claim the ball at the feet of Van Persie. A second later and the Manchester United forward was either through on goal or going down to win a penalty.

Appeals: Holland's Arjen Robben reacts after being fouled as the Oranje bench look on

Double team: Cristian Gamboa of Costa Rica blocks Arjen Robben's route to goal

39min: Robben dummies it, and Wesley Sneijder's curling effort has plenty of power as it heads for the top corner, but Navas springs like a...well...spring to dive to his right and punch the ball behind.
The Costa Rica keeper's stock is rising by the minute at this World Cup - that's another tremendous stop.

37min: Good chance for Holland, and surprise, surprise it's due to Robben going down 25 yards from goal.
Junior Diaz is booked for the foul which Robben and Sneijder now stand over ready to take the free-kick

34min: They will get another go though, as Georginio Wijnaldum makes a similar foul in a similar position.
The ball inside the box is knocked dangerously into the six-yard-box, where Holland scramble clear. Nervous times for the Dutch who are doing anything but dominate this match they are heavy favourites to win.

Concern: Holland boss Louis van Gaalspeaks to fourth official Noumandiez Doue on the touchline

33min: Another set-piece chance for Costa Rica as Van Persie has been forced back into his own half, where he doesn't really help his team by bringing down Johnny Acosta 30 yards out.
Christian Bolanos whips another free-kick into the penalty area but this time Jasper Cilleseen is off his line to confidently claim.

30min: Navas is making a name for himself a s superb shot stopper in this tournament and he's at it again.
This time Depay breaks inside the box from the left, but his near post shot is well blocked by the Costa Rica stopper who reacts well to parry the ball to safety.

Going to ground: Memphis Depay (left) and Costa Rica's Giancarlo Gonzalez vie for possession

28min: Costa Rica will be taking some encouragement out of their set plays so far, with Holland looking rather nervous at the back.
A ball whipped towards the back post is directed towards Celso Borges whose jump is just an inch or two short of connecting with a header.

25min: I think Van Persie hasn't quite got his shooting boots on today - along with his sense of timing.
Kuyt's through ball from the right manages to pick out the Manchester United striker, but he makes a mess of trying to control the ball inside the box before the offside flag is raised against him.

On the edge: Costa Rica's Colombian coach Jorge Luis Pinto gestures from the edge of his technical area

22min: First chance for Holland! Dirk Kuyt's superb cut-back finds an unmarked Memphis Depay on the edge of the box, who tees up Robin van Persie on the left side of the penalty area.
The Holland striker sees his shot blocked clear by Keylor Navas though, who is quickly back on his feet to deny Wesley Sneijder's slightly scuffed rebound. By far the best chances of the match so far.

Looking for space: Costa Rica's defender Giancarlo Gonzalez (C) and Junior Diaz apply pressure to Holland's Robin van Persie

From Sportsmail's Ian Ladyman in Salvador
'They are signing Neymar’s name here in Salvador. This is a country that still hasn’t come to terms with the fact their best player will not feature in the World Cup again.
'On the field, Holland have been slightly more pro-active than they have been at the start of other games.. Robben certainly looks on his game while Van Persie has also started brightly. The bad news is that, after just 15 minutes, we have a Mexican wave.'

Heads up: Georginio Wijnaldum (20) of Holland has an aerial battle with Celso Borges of Costa Rica in Los Ticos' box

17min: Woeful. Holland are casually passing the ball around at the back with no real idea on how to get past this Costa Rica defence.
A few times they have attacked down the right, but an attempted through pass for Robin van Persie has failed twice now - and failed pretty badly too. I'm surprised it's taken this long but here comes a Mexican Wave from the bored crowd.

14min: It's a big thumbs down from the supporters. They are not happy with Holland's slow approach to the first 15 minutes.
I can't remember Keylor Navas having to make a meaningful save in the Costa Rica goal. On that note I can't even remember a Holland shot, on target or not.

Tumble and fall: Costa Rica's Christian Bolanos (left) goes to ground trying to win the ball

11min: One of the least inspiring 10 minutes of football at this World Cup. Cristian Gamboa turns Daley Blind on the right but after charging with menace down the flank he sees his low and weak cross easily cleared by the Dutch defence.

Flying Dutchman: Costa Rica's midfielder Yeltsin Tejeda (left) attempts to tackle Holland's Arjen Robben

8min: Robben watch, and so far he is staying on his feet. The Holland forward goes on a dangerous charge down the right flank, but upon reaching the byline is tackled by Giancarlo Gonzalez who puts the ball behind for a corner.

Going down: Joel Campbell of Costa Rica and Arjen Robben of Holland vie for the ball

I'm surprised Holland haven't even threatened yet.
In fact Costa Rica have been the closest so far with a free-kick swung into the box just evading a Los Ticos attacker... I never said it was a good chance.

Tracked: Costa Rica's Christian Bolanos (left) fights for the ball with Holland's Dirk Kuyt

3min: Slowish start which has caught the eye more for tactics than anything else. Costa Rica have five defenders sitting deep, while Holland have gone with a 3-4-3 - also known as attack at all costs.

Strong message: Costa Rica and the Holland players line up behind a FIFA banner

KICK-OFF: Costa Rica get the final quarter-final underway

LATEST RESULTS + FIXTURES (ALL TIMES showing are US.ET)
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Ladybbird · 08-07-14, 15:11

Brazil Police Claim FIFA Official Linked to £60m World Cup Ticket Scam

Daily Mail UK, 8 July 2014

Police in Rio de Janeiro have said a FIFA official is involved in multi-million pound ticket scandal.
Officers have arrested 11 suspected ticket touts as part of an investigation called Operation Jules Rimet, which has tapped the mobile phones of the suspects.
Fabio Barucke, the police investigator in charge of the case, said a FIFA official who was a source of the tickets had access to FIFA offices and stadiums and match tickets.

Probe: The suspected ringleader, Mohamadou Lamine Fofana, had stayed at the Copacabana Palace hotel

Some tickets have been re-sold for eight times their face value.
Investigators are planning to meet FIFA and its official ticket agency MATCH, which sells World Cup hospitality packages.
FIFA's head of media Delia Fischer said it had not received any information from the police identifying the person. She said: 'Maybe it's not from FIFA - it's often easy to come to a conclusion about who is FIFA.'

Barucke said the ticketing ring aimed to make up to £60million by illegally re-selling tickets and that the group had operated at previous World Cups.

Scam: The ticketing ring aimed to make up to £60million by illegally re-selling tickets

The suspected ringleader has been named as Mohamadou Lamine Fofana, an Algerian man who was previously staying at the Copacabana Palace hotel, where all the FIFA top executives are staying.
Barucke believes Fofana was the middleman and that the ticket source was 'someone higher up' the chain.

He said: 'He [Fofana] has tickets from hospitality, from MATCH, and he was close friends with someone from FIFA who was in the middle of that negotiation - who was helping out with that negotiation.
'We were able to identify there is the participation of someone from FIFA.'

Ladybbird · 08-07-14, 22:13

SEMI FINALS:

Brazil 1 Germany 7:
Incredible Scenes in Belo Horizonte as Hosts are Astonishingly Ripped Apart
-in Semi-Final Humiliation

Andre Schurrle hits in a fantastic finish as the host nation's fans applaud Germans
Andre Schurrle taps the ball in to further the hosts' embarrassment
Sami Khedira unbelievably makes it FIVE
Paulinho and Ramires come on at half-time in place of Hulk and Fernandinho
Toni Kroos nets a FOURTH for his nation as hosts are being humiliated
Toni Kroos scores a third for the Germans
Miroslav Klose is the all time World Cup goalscorer
Thomas Muller scores to give Germans early lead after being left completely unmarked from a corner
Germany are punishing a Brazilian team that looks lost

Bernard and Dante in for Neymar and Thiago Silva
Brazil and Germany target first World Cup final in 12 years
Host nation without Neymar after back injury ends Barcelona star's tournament
Joachim Low's team hoping to avoid losing third straight semi-final
Two sides meet at Estadio Mineirao in Belo Horizonte

Daily Mail UK, 8 July 2014

Teams:

Head-to-head record: Played 21 Brazil Wins 12 Draws 5 Germany Wins 4

Quote:

Brazil v Germany
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.
Germany: Neuer, Lahm, Boateng, Hummels, Howedes, Schweinsteiger, Khedira, Muller, Kroos, Ozil, Klose.
Subs: Zieler, Grosskreutz, Ginter, Schurrle, Podolski, Draxler, Durm, Mertesacker, Gotze, Kramer, Weidenfeller.
Goal: Muller 11
Referee: Marco Rodriguez (Mexico)

22:49

FULL-TIME: Brazil 1-7 Germany

Consolation: Oscar of Brazil tucked home a last minute consolation for Brazil

22:46

GOAL! BRAZIL 1-7 Germany
90min: Seconds after Ozil runs through unmarked on goal and blasts wide, a long hopeful pass finds Oscar who so easily turns Boateng before dispatching past Neuer.
Germany, being perfectionists, look furious that they have conceded.

85min: Aside from a five-minute spell at the start of this half, Brazil just haven't even looked like saving face in this period. Ramires fires a shot from distance but it's an easy save for Neuer.

22:34

GOAL! Brazil 0-7 GERMANY
79min: Brazil fans have completely ignored their team now, and rather admirably have decided to applaud Germany's seventh goal.
Even I'm applauding it, as Andre Schurrle shows neat control to bring down a cross after charging into the box, before drilling high into Cesar's near post top corner. Stunning finish.

Riot: Andre Schurrle of Germany scores his team's seventh goal as David Luiz looks on

Seven up: Andre Schurrle celebrates scoring his second and Germany's seventh goal

22:33

Germany substitution
76min: Final change from Germany as Julian Draxler comes on for Khedira.

22:33

From Sportsmail's Neil Ashton in Belo Horizonte
'A shot of the original Ronaldo shown commentating has just come up on the big screen.
'Different circumstances, but remember the France 98 World Cup when he got off his sick bed to play in the final and they lost 3-0.
'Kroos has scored twice and made one here, but he has had only 63 touches to the ball - he’s usually in three figures by now. He has been outstanding though. For me the best midfielder in Europe and has been for some time.
'Plenty of Brazil fans leaving the stadium now. Absolutely disastrous night for them.'

22:31

Brazil substitution
72min: Fred finally departs for Willian, and after a picture goes up on the big screen of the hapless striker sitting on the bench, even more jeers go up. He might want a pair of sunglasses and a hat trying to get out of Belo Horizonte this evening.

22:25

GOAL! Brazil 0-6 GERMANY

69min: Up go the boos again - and I'm not surprised as it's more shambolic Brazil defending.
Germany easily build a passing move on the right with Lahm and Ozil, which leads to a simple square pass for Andre Schurrle inside the box which the Chelsea star tucks home from close range. Even Germany cannot be bothered to celebrate with gusto now..

Super sub: Germany's forward Andre Schurrle (centre) scores his team's sixth goal

Six of the best: Germany's Andre Schurrle celebrates after scoring his side's sixth goal

22:25
67min: Paulinho has looked lively since coming, but damn he just cannot shoot. After wonderfully chipping the ball across goal for Bernard, the Tottenham midfielder darts into the box for a return pass, only to fire his close range overhead kick wide. Dante is booked for a trip on Muller.

22:20
61min: Top save from Cesar who is perhaps the only Brazil player to come out this game without any real regrets as he tips over Muller's late dipping drive from 25 yards. Cesar was pretty helpless for all five goals.
Maicon by contrast is lucky not to be booked for dicing after taking a shameful tumble inside the box after Boateng aborted an attempt at a tackle.
Germany are furious with the referee for not punishing the simulation - completely understandable too.

I can't watch: Brazil's coach Luiz Felipe Scolari reacts during the semi-final

22:16
Germany substitution

58min: Second change for Germany as Klose applauds a small pocket of Germany fans before the World Cup's greatest ever goal scorer departs in favour of Andre Schurrle.

22:15
57min: Germany seemed to have weathered that early storm, as David Luiz plays a nervy back pass which Julio Cesar collects.
Luiz has been terrible this evening. Chelsea must be laughing all the way to the bank with the £50m they have picked up for him from PSG.

54min: Brazil are flying! In fact they are all over Germany as Paulinho beats the offside trap to put himself one-on-one with Neuer only to rifle straight at the keeper by his near post, before seeing his rebound across goal tipped behind by Neuer. Why didn't Brazil play like this in the first half?

51min: Scolari's had to give his most challenging half-time team-talk ever, but at least he has garnered a response from his players.
Fred releases Ramires on the right side of the box, before his dangerous cut-back is cut out by Neuer. Moments later the ball is back in the Germany box, but Oscar's snap shot is superbly saved by the keeper.

22:06
48min: Good start from Brazil, in the fact they have the ball I guess. They are literally playing for penalties though as Oscar runs into Jerome Boateng as the ball bounces loose in the air, while Fred goes down under pressure from fresh air with Mertesacker close by.
Not even the referee is willing to give them a sympathetic spot-kick it seems.

22:02

SECOND-HALF: Three changes at the break (but not all for Brazil)

Hulk and Fernandinho are replaced (yes, Fred stays on - no I don't know why neither) as Ramires and Paulinho are sent into the lions' den.
Germany give Mats Hummels a rest and send on Per Mertesacker.

21:59
It really could be worse for Brazil too. During the first half, David Luiz appeared to swing a elbow at Klose - an incident which the referee chose to ignore.
Not that Brazil need more misery piled on them. I can't remember the last time I saw a team so brutally battered inside a first half - let alone one in a World Cup semi-final.
Brazil owe it to their supporters to at least try and pull a goal or two back, or at least make it respectable. Will Scolari ring the changes though?

Collision course: Brazil's David Luiz (left) appeared to swing an elbow at Miroslav Klose

21:52

PLAYER WATCH: Fred (Brazil)
Normally, I try to sum up the first half in a few words, but I'm going to show you Fred's heat map and let you join the dots.
Just to get you started - the touches do include kicking off...

21:47

HALF-TIME: Brazil 0-5 Germany

Humiliation confirmed, as local fans boo their team of at half-time. Oh to be a fly on the wall in the Brazil dressing room...

21:46
44min: There will be one added minute to what has been the worst first half ever for Brazilian football. I will be very surprised if they don't make three changes at the break.

21:45
41min: The biggest surprise is that the scoreline is still 5-0 - although I'm wondering just how much Germany are trying now.
The game has a feel of one about to enter the final five minutes of the game, not the first half. Brazil look too stunned to launch any sort of reply.

21:40
38min: No mercy from Germany who are continuing to press for a sixth. They win a free-kick 25 yards out but Mesut Ozil poorly curls his shot over the bar.
I'm still startled I'm watching a team that hasn't lost a competitive home game in 39 years throw away such a proud record inside 30 minutes.

Five-star: Germany's players celebrate after Sami Khedira (left) scores their fifth goal

Too much to handle: A fan cries as Germany trounced Germany in the first half

Tear we go: A Brazil supporter looks on as Germany led a first-half onslaught

***Brazil have conceded five goals for only the second time in the World Cup; the first was in 1938 v Poland. Nightmare..For those of you hoping for a Brazil comeback/some sort of competitive association football match - they won that game 6-5

32min: It could be six! Yet another cut-back finds Kroos on the edge of the box, whose strike hits the raised arm of Fernandinho before deflecting just wide for a corner.
If Brazil focused more on their gameplan than leading tributes to Neymar they may actually still be in this semi-final.

21:29
GOAL! Brazil 0-5 GERMANY

29min: Yes, yes it is. This is unacceptable from Brazil. They have totally capitulated and their fans are in tears now as another Mesut Ozil strolls through the centre before laying the ball back for Sami Khedira to tuck into the bottom corner.

21:25
GOAL! Brazil 0-4 GERMANY

21:25
GOAL! Brazil 0-3 GERMANY

21:22
GOAL! Brazil 0-2 GERMANY

23min: We have a new World Cup record! It's a big one too!
A neat one-touch move is too hot to handle for Brazil's defence, as Miroslav Klose sees a shot saved by Julio Cesar inside the box, before tapping home the rebound to score his 16th World Cup of all-time - more than any other player!

17min: Already it's boiling over as Jerome Boateng is furious with Marcelo for appealing to win a penalty after a superb sliding challenge from Philippe Lahm on the Real Madrid full-back.
The referee had already agreed it was a fair challenge, but the players are starting to get at each other already as Muller helps break up a stare-down between the pair.

Tucked away: Germany's forward Thomas Muller (centre) scores their first goal

Party poopers: Thomas Muller of Germany celebrates with team-mates after opening the scoring

From former World Cup referee and Sportsmail's Graham Poll
'Well we now know that the referees are going to keep officiating leniently as Muller escapes a yellow card for a clear pull back on Marcelo.'

From Sportsmail's Neil Ashton in Belo Horizonte
'Yep, easy to blame David Luiz for losing Thomas Muller, but the initial mistake came from Marcelo’s disastrous touch in the Germany half. He scampered back to concede the corner, but he was asking for trouble with his mistake.'

Beaten: Brazil's goalkeeper Julio Cesar (right) fails to stop a shot by Germany's forward Thomas Muller

GOAL! Brazil 0-1 GERMANY

11min: It's been a pulsating start to this semi-final, with defences all over the place - so it's no surprise that shocking defending leads to the first goal.
Germany swing a corner into the centre and standing unmarked near the far post is Thomas Muller who simply taps home. How he has gone unmarked from a set-piece is astonishing.

8min: Now Germany are turning up - in fact it's Low's side doing Brazil's defending as Sami Khedira's snap shot inside the box is blocked by Toni Kroos.

Stick a foot in: Sami Khedira of Germany is challenged by Fernandinho of Brazil

From Sportsmail's Neil Ashton in Belo Horizonte
'Whistles whenever Germany are on the ball are deafening. Absolute brain-freeze to play in, so hostile.'

4min: Fantastic ball from David Luiz! The defender pings a lovely long pass for Hulk on the left byline, but the forward's cut-back for Fred inside the box is pounced upon by Manuel Neuer. Brazil should know by now that the German keeper likes a good ramble to come off his line.

3min: No Neymar, no problem? It's all Brazil in the early stages as they win a corner which Germany clear before Marcelo strikes wide of the target from 25 yards out.

21:01

KICK-OFF: Germany get us going in Belo Horizonte

Tribute: Goalkeeper Julio Cesar and David Luiz of Brazil hold a Neymar jersey as they sing the Brazil national anthem

From Sportsmail's Neil Ashton in Belo Horizonte
'The Brazil players are shedding more tears for Neymar Junior, but my eyes are watering for Paris St Germain defender Maxwell: the poor fella hasn’t made single appearance for Brazil at this World Cup.'

Ready for kick-off: A Brazil football fan smiles before the semi-final kicks off

Brazil players stand with a Neymar shirt for the anthems...
I don't know...maybe I'm a killjoy, but as the Brazil players and crowd once again punch out the Brazilian national anthem with their usual high passion and emotion, Julio Cesar and David Luiz show off a shirt with Neymar's name and number on the reverse. Too far?

Out come the players in Belo Horizonte
It's fairly overcast as the players make their way out to what is mostly a sea of yellow in support of the host nation. There are a few German supporters though, including Bastian Schweinsteiger's girlfriend Sarah Brandner.

WAG support: Sarah Brandner, girlfriend of Bastian Schweinsteiger of Germany, looks on from inside the ground

Getting your excuses in early, Joachim?
Germany boss Joachim Low has had a quick pitch inspection before the game.

A bit spongy: German national soccer team head coach Joachim Low checks the pitch

So how far will you go to chase a team bus?
...falling flat on your face is out for me.

PENALTY! Brazilian girl takes spectacular dive chasing team bus

A penny for your thoughts, Thiago?
So Thiago Silva does get on the pitch...but it's only for a warm-up and the suspended captain very much cuts the figure of a man who is relying on others to get him to the World Cup final.

In thought: Thiago Silva looks on pitchside during the warm up

All smiles: A fan poses with the Brazil flag inside the ground

Filling up: Fans from both teams take their seats inside the ground

NO Neymar, NO Silva, NO Hope?
-Hosts Face Daunting Showdown in Fight to Reach the World Cup Final

Ladybbird · 11-07-14, 15:24

Luis Suarez to Barcelona: Latest Transfer Details, Reaction and More

11 Jul, 2014

Liverpool announced on Friday that Luis Suarez will be leaving the club after a deal was struck with Barcelona.

The Reds confirmed the news with a statement on their official website:

Quote:

Liverpool FC confirms that Luis Suarez will be leaving the club after a transfer agreement was reached with FC Barcelona. The player now has permission to complete the usual formalities, which will then conclude the transfer.

We would like to thank Luis for his contribution and the role he played in helping bring Champions League football back to Anfield.

Everyone at Liverpool Football Club wishes Luis and his family well for the future.

He will wear the No. 9 jersey, as noted by 101 Great Goals:
Suarez also released a statement via Liverpool's website, expressing his reasons for leaving. Notably, he revealed the Reds did everything to try to convince him to stay:

Quote:

It is with a heavy heart that I leave Liverpool for a new life and new challenges in Spain. Both me and my family have fallen in love with this club and with the city.

But most of all I have fallen in love with the incredible fans. You have always supported me and we, as a family, will never forget it, we will always be Liverpool supporters.
I hope you can all understand why I have made this decision. This club did all they could to get me to stay, but playing and living in Spain, where my wife's family live, is a lifelong dream and ambition. I believe now the timing is right.

The eventual fee paid by Barcelona is believed to be significantly lower than the release clause inserted in his Liverpool contract.
Spanish football and Bleacher Report UK expert Guillem Balague reports the deal is worth £64 million:

Quote:

The figures of Suárez cost: clause was €100 milion. FCB paid €81. The sale of Alexis (€34.6+3 depending targets) helped reduce the cost

Suarez spent the past three-and-a-half seasons with Liverpool. He emerged as one of the most prolific goalscorers in Europe over that time, and he reached new heights by netting 31 goals in 33 Premier League appearances last campaign.
However, the 2012/13 season ended on a low note when he was handed a 10 match ban for biting Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic. It was the second such issue involving the striker, who was suspended for seven matches after a 2010 incident while with Ajax.

Then, shockingly, he did it again at the World Cup. This time he sunk his teeth into Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini and was handed a major punishment by FIFA, which included a ban from nine international matches as well as from football activity for a period of four months.
Unfortunately, those two extremes are what Suarez brings to the table: an immense talent who can be prone to some poor choices that force his club into difficult predicaments.

That said, in the world of football, where dynamic strikers capable of carrying an attack are tough to come by, the skill is always going to shine through. For clubs in need of a spark, Suarez's upside is more than enough to offset the mistakes he's made.
If Suarez is able to keep a level head, it's impossible to doubt his immense value. The 27-year-old Uruguayan international possesses a well-rounded offensive skill set, highlighted by his ability to bury chances with terrific efficiency.
The Reds noted he was rated as the top player in the Premier League by WhoScored.com this past season

Ladybbird · 13-07-14, 13:18

Brazil v Holland

12 July 2014

MINUTE By MINUTE REPORTS/PHOTOs from Dreamteamdownloads1.com
-(NOT Available to NON Registered Members)

Quote:

Brazil: Cesar, Maicon, Silva, Luiz, Maxwell, Gustavo, Paulinho, Ramires, Oscar, Willian, Jo
Substitutes: Jefferson, Dani Alves, Fernandinho, Marcelo, Hulk, Fred, Dante, Henrique, Hernanes, Bernard, Victor
Holland: Cillessen, Kuyt, De Vrij, Vlaar, Martins Indi, Blind, Clasie, Wijnaldum, de Guzman , Robben, Van Persie
Substitutes: Vorm, Janmaat, Verhaegh, Veltman, Kongolo, Lens, Huntelaar, Depay, Krul
Referee: Djamel Haimoudi (Algeria)

Brazil 0-3 Holland FIFA World Cup 2014

Thiago Silva brings down Arjen Robben to concede a penalty in the first minute of the game
Brazil and Holland contest play-off for third place
Host nation looking to hit back from humiliating 7-1 defeat by Germany
Netherlands beaten by Argentina on penalties in semi-final
Brazil 2014's penultimate game comes at Garrincha Stadium in Brasilia
Match marks Louis van Gaal's last as Dutch boss before taking over at Manchester United
Germany and Argentina will contest the 2014 World Cup final

Follow Dreamteamdownloads1.com coverage of the World Cup as Brazil take on Holland in Brasilia for the third-place play-off in the tournament's penultimate game.

The consolation match gives both teams an opportunity to end Brazil 2014 on a high, with the hosts still shell-shocked from suffering a 7-1 hammering at the hands of Germany in the semi-final.

Holland's semi-final defeat was more narrow in their penalty shootout elimination by Argentina and the play-off will mark Louis van Gaal's farewell match in charge of the national side before he takes over at Manchester United.

22:53

FULL-TIME: Brazil 0 Holland 3

That's it, their misery is over. One last chorus of boos from the crowd to voice their displeasure at another abject performance from Brazil. They were well beaten tonight, their sorry demise all too visible.
An early penalty from Robin van Persie set the Dutch on their way, Daley Blind added a second to knock the stuffing out the contest and then Georginio Wijnaldum added a late third.
A fine way for Louis van Gaal to bow out and he will now head to Manchester. Luis Felipe Scolari has been summoned to a meeting with the Brazilian FA tonight. I can only imagine that going one way.
There's probably only one thing that could exacerbate matters for Brazil and that's Argentina lifting the trophy. You can see if they achieve that against Germany later today

22:53

90+4min - Maicon sums it all up
That will be Brazil's last chance of their home World Cup and it kinds of neatly sums up the last few days. Maicon, striding forward to reach the ball, leathers it into row Z. Awful.

22:51

90+2min - Final change for Holland
A nice touch here by Louis van Gaal. Jasper Cillessen is coming off and is replaced by Michel Vorm for the last couple of minutes. It means Van Gaal has now used all 23 of his players at this World Cup.

22:49

GOAL! Holland 3 (Wijnaldum 90+1) Brazil 0

Three and easy. Nobody in Brazil can contest that isn't a deserved third for Holland. Janmaat got forward down the right and then scuffed his low cross. But the lack of pace deceived Thiago Silva and fell kindly for Wijnaldum to sweep the ball home.

22:48

89min - Substitution for Holland
An enforced change for the Dutch as Jordy Clasie is carried off on a stretcher. Ajax man Joel Veltman will come on for stoppage time, of which there will be five minutes.

22:46

Fantastic shift from Vlaar

22:45

PICTURE: Nice and easy night for Cillessen

22:45

86min - Kuyt nearly heads it in
Devilish corner from Robben and the brave Kuyt flies in to meet it as Julio Cesar comes towards him with two fists flashing. The Dutch player gets their first and sends it over the bar but replays show he should have been awarded a corner as it touched the keeper's hands first.

22:41

81min - Robben goes down again
Long ball over the top is chested down in the box by Robben. He tumbles to the floor as Fernandinho barges him in the back, but the referee isn't interested.

22:33

75min - Wild from Hulk
Brazil's first chance for some time, as the largely anonymous Jo runs down the centre of the pitch and lays it left to Hulk. His shot was ambitious and flies off into the stands.

22:30

72min - Substitution for Brazil
Ramires has run his race and goes off, with Hulk coming on to add another attacking dimension. It's a mixed reaction for the Chelsea man, a better one for Hulk.

22:28

70min - Substitution for Holland
Daley Blind looks in great discomfort as he is taken back to the dressing room by stretcher. Daryl Janmaat will replace him.

Painful: Daley Blind injured his knee following a penalty area challenge on Oscar

22:27

67min - Oscar booked for diving
It's fair to say that Djamel Haimoudi is unimpressed with Oscar. The Brazilian has just gone knee-to-knee with Daley Blind and gone down in the box - a dive, according to the official. I'm not too sure about that, there was definite impact, as proven by the fact that Blind is now being taken off on a stretcher.

22:21

63min - Luiz free-kick is clutched by Cillessen
David Luiz aiming to replicate that amazing free-kick goal against Colombia but he can't get the swerve and movement this time and Cillessen reaches up and catches at a comfortable height. Yet more frustration for Brazil.

22:18

60min - Ramires fires wide of the target
Lovely turn from Ramires there, freeing him from a cluster of Dutch defenders, a shimmy right to get past Ron Vlaar and then a shot from the edge of the box that drifts wide of the post. Better from Brazil as we pass the hour mark.

22:14

56min - Substitution for Brazil
Scolari introducing another fresh face - Hernanes comes on for Paulinho. They desperately need a spark from somewhere otherwise this match will fizzle out pretty quickly.
His first act, about 30 seconds after coming on, is to clatter Arjen Robben.

22:12

53min - Booking for Fernandinho
Fernandinho in the book as he sends Van Persie tumbling with a knock to the knee. A sensitive area for the Dutchman as we've seen in previous seasons.

22:08

50min - Robben on the rampage
Arjen Robben picking up where he left off in the first half, beating Brazilian defenders for fun down the left channel. His shot is blocked but loops up over Julio Cesar and Wijnaldum, standing in an offside position anyway, can't nod it in at the far post. Good intent from the Dutch once again.

22:05

47min - Julio Cesar plays the sweeper role
Bravado from Julio Cesar, dribbling the ball inside his own area and then turning Robin van Persie. Seconds from disaster but he manages to get it away and Brazil on the move again.

Brave face: Neymar is papped by spectators as he takes his place on the bench

22:03

Substitution for Brazil
The two sides are back for the second half and Brazil have made a change, with Fernandinho replacing Luis Gustavo.
Brazil get the second period underway, trailing by two goals to nil.

21:47

HALF-TIME: Brazil 0 Holland 2

At least it isn't 5-0 like the other night...
That's the only real consolation for Brazil, who have been out-paced, out-manoeuvred and out-scored by Holland, who lead thanks to that early Robin van Persie penalty and Daley Blind's well-taken second.
The Selecao are chorused with jeers as they leave the field and rightly so. This is not how they planned the World Cup.

21:44

43min - Awful challenge from Vlaar
Ramires is rolling around on the turf in considerable discomfort and it's not hard to see why. Ron Vlaar coming out of defence and kicking him square on the shin. No booking but a free-kick to the hosts in a dangerous spot 25 yards from goal...
David Luiz leaves it to Oscar, who finds the wall, and then Maxwell fires over the bar.

Orders: Louis van Gaal talks to Ron Vlaar (hopefully not telling him to kick someone on the shin)

21:42

41min - Van Persie looks for the bottom corner
Nicely taken half-volley from Van Persie outside the box aimed at the far corner. It's well struck but Julio Cesar read it and made a comfortable save. Holland still sniffing for more goals as we approach the break.
Kuyt is back on after a couple of minutes' treatment.

21:39

39min - Head injury for Kuyt
Dirk Kuyt in a bit of trouble, he's taken a blow to the back of his head and blood has been drawn. He's being patched up on the sidelines and Holland are temporarily down to 10 men.

Ouch: Dirk Kuyt receives treatment to a head wound

21:38

37min - Brazil are inches away
That's the closest Brazil have come so far - teasing cross from Oscar wide on the right and Gustavo flicked it on at the near post. But that contact took it beyond Paulinho and Luiz as they flung themselves towards the ball in front of an unguarded net. So close.

Inches away: The ball flasghes across the goalmouth as David Luiz tries to get a foot on it

21:36

35min - Booking for De Guzman
An enormous ironic cheer goes up as referee Haimoudi shows Jonathan de Guzman for a cynical foul on Oscar, who had broken through into space in the middle of the park.

21:31

29min - De Guzman sends it over
Robben threading himself through the eye of a defensive needle out on the right and teeing up De Guzman in the middle. He prods an effort towards goal but it flies over without flustering Julio Cesar.
The crowd entertaining themselves with a Mexican wave, primarily because Brazil are incapable of attacking.

21:28

27min - Oscar goes down
Martins Indi very lucky to get away without picking up a booking there as he trips Oscar on the edge of the penalty box. Just a stern talking to by our Algerian official. But, free-kick in dangerous territory for Brazil...
...but David Luiz sends it wide with a header after he clambers above team-mate Jo to reach the delivery.

Acrobatic: David Luiz leaps to win possession

21:16

GOAL! Holland 2 (Daley Blind 16) Brazil 0

My goodness, what is happening to Brazilian football? David Luiz at fault as he stupidly heads a cross from De Guzman back into play rather than over the bar (he was under no pressure whatsoever).
It falls kindly for Daley Blind and he duly claims his first international goal by finding the corner of the net. Thank you very much.
Those defensive frailties that were so brutally exposed by Germany the other night coming back to haunt the hosts again. The atmosphere has gone completely flat and it's little wonder.

Composed: Daley Blind finds the net to double Holland's lead

Off the mark: Blind runs off to celebrate his maiden international goal

21:13

PICTURE: Holland celebrate the opening goal

Brazil 0-1 Holland

21:12

10min - Better from Brazil
The volume levels go up a notch as Brazil flow down the left-hand side but the cross fails to reach Jo as Bruno Martins Indi subtly levers him out of its path.

21:09

8min - Robben booked
The biggest cheer of the night so far as Arjen Robben is booked for a shirt-tug on Paulinho as the Brazilian man attempted to break clear. Then Robben falls over theatrically. Not fooling anyone.

21:03

GOAL! Holland 1 (Robin van Persie pen 3) Brazil 0

Oh dear, oh dear... Brazil's fragile defence well and truly exposed there as Arjen Robben breezes through and Thiago Silva drags him back inside the box. He's the last man but the referee takes pity and brandishes only a yellow card.
But Van Persie doesn't have any mercy, scoring with a clinical penalty to give Holland the lead. Boos ring around the arena.
Brazil fortunate to still have a full compliment of players but there looks to be plenty of faults for Holland to take advantage of.

Early blow: The referee awards Holland a second minute penalty after Thiago Silva drags down Arjen Robben

Clinical: Robin van Persie strokes home the spot kick

21:02

2min - PENALTY TO HOLLAND

20:59

KICK-OFF... The third-place play-off is underway

Here we go then, let's hope for an entertaining spectacle. Holland will get us underway, Robin van Persie and Arjen Robben getting the show on the road.
Neymar is cheered to the echo by the crowd as his smiling face is flashed up on the big screen. He is sat on the bench tonight but isn't, of course, a substitute.

20:56

Anthems
The two teams walk out into the Estadio Nacional, which is, as you would expect, a sea of yellow. Brazil are in their traditional yellow strips this evening, Holland in their change colours of all-blue.
Louis van Gaal sings the Dutch anthem for the final time as manager and the Brazilian players produce their own hair-raising rendition. It's been a chastening few days for the record World Cup winners, but there remains plenty of pride on display here.

Pride and passion: The Brazil team line up for their national anthem ahead of kick-off

20:51

10 minutes until kick-off
Not long now until the action gets underway in Brasilia and we find out who will finish in third place at the World Cup.
The two sides are assembling in the tunnel at the Estadio Nacional, with David Luiz and Neymar high-fiving and hugging the mascots.

Tender moment: A smiling mascot gets a hug from Neymar in the tunnel

20:47

TEAM NEWS
There is a late alteration to the Holland team because Wesley Sneijder has injured his hamstring in the warm-up. Jonathan de Guzman will come in to the side.

20:40

PICTURE: Neymar takes his place on the bench
Of course, he hasn't really been named among the substitutes but Neymar was pitchside to watch Brazil warm up.

Brazil vs Holland: All the Stats, Facts and Team News for the Third-Place Play-Off

Hosts Brazil welcome captain Thiago Silva back into the side
Silva's one-match suspension meant that he missed the 7-1 thrashing by Germany in the World Cup semi-finals on Tuesday
Luiz Felipe Scolari and Louis van Gaal could make a number of changes

Quote:

Semi-final: Brazil vs Holland

Venue: Estadio Nacional, Brasilia

Kick-off: 9pm (5pm, Brazil time)
Odds: Brazil 11/10, Draw 5/2, Holland 21/10

Referee: Djamel Haimoudi, Algeria

Managers:
Luiz Felipe Scolari (Brazil)
Louis van Gaal (Holland)

Brazil Bid to Put Silver Lining on Their World Cup
-as Injured Neymar Watches on -But Van Gaal's
Holland Stand in the Way...

SUNDAY > 3PM (TIME is US.ET):

GERMANY v ARGENTINA

Ladybbird · 13-07-14, 21:43

GERMANY 1 ARGENTINA 0

Daily Mail UK, 13 July 2014

Quote:

Germany: Neuer, Lahm, Boateng, Hummels, Howedes, Kramer, Schweinsteiger, Muller, Kroos, Ozil, Klose.
Subs: Zieler, Grosskreutz, Ginter, Schurrle, Podolski, Draxler, Durm, Mertesacker, Gotze, Weidenfeller.
Argentina: Romero, Zabaleta, Demichelis, Garay, Rojo, Biglia, Mascherano, Perez, Higuain, Messi, Lavezzi.
Subs: Orion, Campagnaro, Gago, Di Maria, Rodriguez, Augusto Fernandez, Federico Fernandez, Palacio, Alvarez, Aguero, Basanta, Andujar.
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli (Italy)

22:36

FULL-TIME: Germany 1-0 Argentina (AET)

Germany have won the World Cup for the fourth time

22:36
120+3min: Oh dear, what a poor way to end the final. Messi blasts a good few yards over the bar. The pressure too much...

22:34
120+2min: Messi stands over but Romero is not being allowed to come up and attack this free-kick. There will be a delay in the taking of it as Schweinsteiger, who conceded it, limps off with cramp.

22:33
120+1min: We are into two added minutes and Argentina win a free-kick 25 yards to goal on the right... Last chance saloon now.

22:32

Germany substitution
120min: Final change for Germany as Mesut Ozil departs in favour of Per Mertesacker.

Golden goal? Germany's forward Mario Gotze volleys home in extra-time

Super Mario: Germany's Mario Gotze celebrates with Thomas Muller after scoring in extra time

22:25

GOAL! GERMANY 1-0 Argentina

113min: GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAALL We have a breakthrough and what a stunner it is! It's super sub time for Germany as Schurrle dinks a lovely cross to the near post where Mario Gotze takes a delicate touch to control the ball before burying a volley across goal and into the back of the net. I've been waiting nearly two hours for that!

22:24
From former World Cup referee and Sportsmail's Graham Poll
'Aguero certainly lucky not to be sent off for that clash with Schweinsteiger.
Rizzoli could have taken the easy option and issued a second yellow or straight red.'

22:23
110min: Forget Mascherano, Aguero should be off! The Argentina striker take a glance at Schweinsteiger, who's had a rough couple of minutes, before clubbing him with his arm while battling for a header.
It's worthy of a straight red card, and he's been booked as it is. How the referee has missed that I do not know. The Germany midfielder even has a cut on his face and has to go off to get cleaned up.

22:21
108min: It's sliding in synchronisation as Mascherano and Biglia both take out Schweinsteiger with a tackle - and I think the former is lucky to escape another yellow card and a sending off there.

22:17

SECOND-HALF: So who wants to be a hero and prevent penalties?

22:17
We've had one goal in the last 326 minutes of World Cup finals. I really should have seen this coming...

22:14

HALF-TIME: Germany 0-0 Argentina

22:11
101min: Argentina's tiring legs are taking their toll and Sabella's side look content to only attack on the counter now.
Germany are seeing more of the ball but have looked rather toothless in attack. It's hard to imagine this is the same team that dismantled Brazil in Belo Horizonte with such ease.

22:08
98min: Now Palacio blows a huge chance to score. Rojo's falling cross catches out the German defence, but the striker's first touch is poor and it allows an on-rushing Neuer to race off his line and close the angles before the substitute lofts the ball over the keeper and wide of the target.
It's yet another big let-off for Germany who really have handed Argentina some brilliant chances tonight.

21:59

EXTRA-TIME: The additional 30 minute period is underway

Where was all this in the second half? Romero is immediately called into action as the Argentina keeper is forced to parry at his near post from a rising Schurrle effort at the very start of the half before his defence scramble clear.

21:55
So for the third World Cup running, the final has gone to extra-time. The second half lacked the chances of the first but it's not been a terrible game.
Argentina have shown their hand as they have made all their changes but Germany still have one substitute left.

21:52

FULL-TIME: Germany 0-0 Argentina (extra-time to be played)

21:50
90min: Extra time beckons as three minutes are added on. Argentina look the more likely as they continue to probe and tease the Germany defence with some excellent through balls.

Kiss good luck? A pitch invader tries to kiss Benedikt Howedes of Germany

21:49

Germany substitution
88min: Couple of crunching, but brilliant, challenges from Germany as Messi then Lucas Biglia lose out to sliding tackles on the edge of the box.
Shortly after, Klose departs for Germany's second change as Gotze replaces him. That is very much likely to be the last act in the World Cup career of the tournament's greatest goal scorer. Farewell Miroslav.

21:45

Argentina substitution
86min: Final change from Argentina as Fernando Gago comes on to replace Enzo Perez. Mario Gotze is preparing to come on for Germany.

21:43
81min: Come on Kroos, where's your shooting boots? Ozil cuts the ball back for the midfielder 20 yards out, but the Germany star can only side foot his effort wide of the post with an abysmal effort on goal.

21:38

Argentina substitution
78min: So if Argentina don't win this final, Higuain will have to live with that first half miss his whole life as he has been replaced by Rodrigo Palacio.
You feel a goal now would be a winning one as the chances dry up.

Inches away: Benedikt Howedes (centre) sees his header come off the post

21:36

From Sportsmail's Rob Draper inside the Maracana
'Tired, tetchy, a mistake is surely coming. From someone.'

From Sportsmail's Ian Ladyman inside the Maracana:
'I have been disappointed in Germany tonight on the whole. All tournament they have looked to have goals in them but not here. Whether the loss of Khedira before kick-off unbalanced them, I don’t know, but the fact is that a team at this level cannot be knocked from its stride by the loss of just one player.
'With 15 minutes left, I would imagine Germany are delighted to still be in the game. Had Argentina been a little more clinical, they could have been over the line by now.'

21:35
74min: We've not seen enough of this from Messi. The forward shows his quick feet to cut inside from the right, but despite creating a yard of space for a shot, fires wide across the target. No repeats of the Iran goal so far from Argentina's star man.

21:32

From Sportsmail's Neil Ashton inside the Maracana
'The psychologists will tell you that teams often subconsciously settle for penalties midway through the second half of normal, since there is ‘no shame’ in losing in a shoot-out. Not that that will happen here, obviously.'

Arm's length: Lionel Messi (right) of Argentina fights off Mesut Ozil of Germany

21:30
69min: Are we looking at extra time in the World Cup final for the third tournament running? Not since Brazil beat Germany 2-0 in the 2002 final have we seen the final decided inside 90 minutes, but the teams continue to cancel each other out as play gets a little scrappy with fouls on the increase.

21:27
From former World Cup referee and Sportsmail's Graham Poll
'A gift for Rizzoli as Mascherano commits a clear cautionable offence to let the referee balance things up with the first yellow card for the South Americans.
'Quickly followed by the ‘equaliser’ as Aguero makes it 2-2 in yellow cards. Rizzoli continues to impress.'

21:25

66min: The yellow cards are racking up for Argentina now as now Aguero is booked for a trip on Schweinsteiger.

21:24

64min: No complaints from Mascherano as the Argentina midfielder leaps in with a sliding challenge that gets none of the ball and all of Klose's ankles resulting in a yellow card.
To be fair I forgot Klose was on the pitch, he has done very little in this half.

21:22

From former World Cup referee and Sportsmail's Graham Poll
'Interesting incident there as Neuer clashed with Higuain. The German ‘keeper had every right to go for the ball with his fist, he nade a clean connection and his follow up was natural.
'So no case for a penalty or hand ball but how Rizzoli came up with a free kick for Germany baffles me. I’d have though t a throw in was the right choice.'

Collision course: Goalkeeper Manuel Neuer of Germany collides with Gonzalo Higuain of Argentina

21:20
58min: What is it with these Germany goalkeepers?! It's Harald Schumacher all over again!
Manuel Neuer races out his goal to punch the ball clear, but in doing so allows his lower body to clatter into Higuain who collapses in a heap.
Incredibly the German keeper even wins a free-kick for his actions. The good news is Higuain, unlike Patrick Battiston in 1982, still has his teeth in place and will continue.

Punch clear: Manuel Neuer races out his box to punch clear in front of Gonzalo Higuain

Caught: Neuer made contact with the Argentina striker while punching the ball

21:14
53min: This has been much better start to the half from Argentina who are trying to apply the pressure on Germany. I'm not certain on the Germany defence and they constantly look like a through ball away from conceding.
Then again, having watched Argentina shoot, Germany are maybe happy to keep letting them have chances.

21:10

From Sportsmail's Ian Ladyman inside the Maracana
'The German team are in no doubt as who is to blame for the fact that young Christoph Kramer left the field in such a confused state after half an hour.
'Ezequiel Garay’s forearm to the jaw of Kramer early on was not quite as sly as he thought and Thomas Muller – for one – has been spotted her gesturing to the Argentina central defender as if to suggest there may be some retribution pending.
'Germany, though, would be foolish to be drawn in to a kicking game here, though. That, after all, may be exactly what Argentina want.'

Surrounded: Argentina's Lionel Messi tries to control the ball past Germany's Bastian Schweinsteiger as Mesut Ozil (8) and Toni Kroos look on

47min: It's Messi's moment! No! He's missed! A through ball has the high Germany line split but as Lionel Messi runs in on goal, he fires a low shot wide across goal. He really must at least hit the target and Germany are let off the hook AGAIN!

21:05

SECOND-HALF: Argentina make a change at the break

Lavezzi has departed for Argentina, no signs of injury at this time, but I can't think of any other reason as Sergio Aguero replaces him.

No goals, but plenty of action. It's a World Cup final that's only lacking the former in an even game which has seen fantastic chances for both sides.
I will be amazed if we don't see a goal in the second half if it carries on like this. It's very much game on.

20:49

HALF-TIME: Germany 0-0 Argentina

Missing out: Germany's defender Benedikt Howedes (second right) heads the ball off the post at the end of the half

20:48
45+2min: OFF THE POST! At the very end of the half, an outswinging corner is met by a bullet header from Howedes, whose nodded effort cannons off the woodwork before Muller is flagged offside fighting for the rebound. In truth, he he should be scoring that header from six yards out.

45min: There will be two added minutes as Germany apply the pressure at the end of the first period.

43min: Kroos hasn't quite got it together today. A surrounded Miroslav Klose squares the ball to him on the edge of the box, but his shot is low, weak and straight at Romero.
After that pass to Higuain earlier on, the Germany midfielder seems intent in just giving the ball to the opposition one way or another.

40min: Hearts in Germany mouths again as their suspect defence continue to struggle against Messi and Co.
The Argentine forward looks to have missed his chance as runs into a dead end on the right byline, but he somehow squeezes the ball past Manuel Neuer before Jerome Boateng hacks clear off the line.
Meanwhile Muller is falling over again, only this time it's for a stupid dive rather than from taking a free-kick. Safe to say the Argentina defence are far from impressed as they square up to the Bayern Munich star

20:39
37min: Germany have responded to this wave of Argentina pressure, by producing their best opportunity of the half.
The ball is cut-back to Shurrle on the edge of the box, whose rising drive looks to be heading for the top corner until Sergio Romero pounces at his near post to push behind.

Down and out: Christoph Kramer of Germany receives medical treatment shortly before being substituted

20:35
From Sportsmail's Neil Ashton from inside the Maracana
'Maracana pitch cutting up right in front of Alex Sabella’s technical area, in the space where Lahm and Muller are trying to operate when Germany surge forward. Looks like a real problem down in that area. Not ideal.'

20:35
34min: Another booking for Germany, who are losing the plot a bit, as Benedikt Howedes is booked for a trip on Javier Mascherano - that looked a little dangerous to me but a yellow is deemed punishment enough.

20:33

Germany substitution
32min: It's all happening in Rio! Argentina think they have scored after Higuain neatly converts Lavezzi's cross until a correct offside flag cuts short the celebrations.
Kramer looks oblivious to everything that is happening around him, and it's probably from that early knock from Garay, as he is helped off the field by physios to be replaced by Andre Schurrle.
What a last hour it's been for the late replacement for Khedira.

20:29
29min: Good to see the referee set the boundaries early on as Bastian Schweinsteiger is booked for tripping Lavezzi on the counter - the first yellow card of this game

27min: There is no doubt Argentina have had THE best chance, but it's still Germany looking more comfortable on the ball.
The good news is this game is already better than that 1990 dud, as Higuain's already had more shots on goal than his country did in that entire Italia 90 final.

20:24
From Sportsmail's Ian Ladyman inside the Maracana
'Been impressed by Argentina in the last ten minutes or so. The two central defenders are dealing with Mulller and Klose so far and Lavezzi has already switched from one side to the other to keep the German full-backs guessing. They are already showing more fluency than against Holland but I wonder if they will rue that Higuain miss.'

Off target: Argentina's forward Gonzalo Higuain (left) fires wide under pressure from Germany's Mats Hummels

Chance blown: Higuain's effort came off the back of a horrendous pass from Germany's Toni Kroos

20:24
From Sportsmail's Ian Ladyman inside the Maracana
'Been impressed by Argentina in the last ten minutes or so. The two central defenders are dealing with Mulller and Klose so far and Lavezzi has already switched from one side to the other to keep the German full-backs guessing. They are already showing more fluency than against Holland but I wonder if they will rue that Higuain miss.'

20:24
21min: WHAT A CHANCE! It's a tale of two howlers! First Toni Kroos has a moment of madness to head the ball back to his own goal, presenting Gonzalo Higuain with a one-on-one chance.
But as the Argentina striker reaches the edge of the box, the pressure of the occasion seems to get to him and he fires wide of the goal.
It's a massive chance and Kroos is the luckiest man on the pitch right now following that awful header.

20:20
From Sportsmail's Neil Ashton inside the Maracana
'Mats Hummels has had an outstanding tournament for Germany at the centre of Joachim Low’s defence. Making the art of central defending look easy at this World Cup.'

Down but not out: Christoph Kramer lies on the pitch after a collision during the final

20:19
17min: Welcome to the World Cup, Kramer. In his first competitive start, the late replacement for the injured Smai Khedira needs treatment inside the Argentina box after Ezequiel Garay charges into his jaw with his shoulder. He should be fine to continue.

From Sportsmail's Ian Ladyman inside the Maracana
'Every time Argentina get the ball – which hasn’t been many times so far – the Maracana comes alive with whistles and jeers. Germany, meanwhile, are greeted with ‘Ole’ every time they pass the ball. Suffice to say, the Brazlians in the audience are making a point.'

From Sportsmail's Neil Ashton inside the Maracana:
'Germany have been unsettled in the opening stages by the challenges and screening duties of Mascherano in the centre and Zabaleta’s robust defending on the right.'

20:13
11min: Germany seemed to be quicker out the blocks but Argentina are coming back into this.
Attacking the right was the tactic in the win over Holland, and it's the preferred route early on here as they win a corner.
Ezequiel Lavezzi's corner is cleared by Mesut Ozil, but the Argentine forward gets the ball back and his second near post delivery is cut out by Manuel Neuer.

20:09
8min: The first wave of the wand from magical Messi. The Barcelona forward shows some neat skill to scamper past Mats Hummels on the right, but after reaching the byline his cut-back is cut out a the near post

20:06
5min: A chance comes from the free-kick... for Argentina! Germany's set-piece routine is somehow worse than the one where Thomas Muller fell over against Algeria in the last 16, as a delayed shot into the wall led to a counter attack.
The ball falls for Gonzalo Higuain inside the box, but from an acute angle he drills wide across the target.

Break away: Germany's forward Miroslav Klose (centre) attempts to get past Argentina's Javier Mascherano

20:01

KICK-OFF: Germany get the World Cup Final Underway

What they are playing for: Former Spain captain Carles Puyol and model Gisele Bundchen present the World Cup trophy pitchside

19:54
From Sportsmail's Neil Ashton in the Maracana
'The Maracana is absolutely rocking as the two teams come out. Pretty special.'

No Sami: Lena Gercke, the girlfriend of Germany's Sami Khedira, waits for the start of the World Cup final inside the Maracana

19:53

BREAKING TEAM NEWS: Sami Khedira is ruled out for Germany
Christoph Kramer will replace the midfielder who is reportedly suffering with a calf strain.

Ladybbird · 14-07-14, 13:40

World Cup Closing Ceremony 2014 sees Shakira, Rihanna, David Beckham, Pele, Tom Brady,
Vladimir Putin and More in the Crowd as Celebrities Spotted at Maracana in Rio de Janeiro for Final

World Cup final 2014 between Argentina and Germany- the closing ceremony at the Maracana will follow
Shakira headlines the closing ceremony in Rio de Janeiro before World Cup in Brazil comes to an end
American football star Tom Brady and supermodel wife Gisele Bundchen spotted getting cosy at Maracana, with Carles Puyol, Sepp Blatter and Rihanna among other VIP guests
David Beckham, Pele, Kaka and Russian President Vladimir Putin spotted in crowd ahead of highly-anticipated game

For plenty, the World Cup coming to an end is unwelcome after more than a month of explosive football on the biggest of stages.
But Brazil, just as they did for the opening ceremony, were looking to make sure they see off the 2014 World Cup with a bang.

The location? The Maracana in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The reason? Celebrating the World Cup final between Argentina and Germany arriving.

Among those spotted for the showdown was American football star Tom Brady, who was getting cosy with his Brazilian supermodel wife Gisele Bundchen, and FIFA President Sepp Blatter, who was chatting to former Barcelona star Carles Puyol and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Scroll down for video

Excited: Shakira (centre) and her partner Barcelona's Gerard Pique (right) smile during the closing ceremony of the 2014 World Cup on Sunday at the Maracana

High spirits: Shakira was the headline act of the closing ceremony before the World Cup final 2014 between Argentina and Germany in Rio de Janeiro

Excited: Rihanna takes her seat for the 2014 World Cup final with her fellow celebrities during the closing ceremony ahead of Germany vs Argentina

Spotted: American football star Tom Brady and Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bundchen were at the Maracana in Rio de Janeiro for the World Cup final 2014

Familiar faces... Former Brazil international Kaka, Brazil legend Pele and ex-England midfielder David Beckham pose ahead of the 2014 World Cup final

Pals: Pele and Beckham looked in high spirits ahead of the 2014 World Cup final between Argentina and Germany in Rio de Janeiro

Hopeful: Lena Gercke, the girlfriend of Germany's Sami Khedira, waits for the start of the 2014 World Cup final in Rio

Star: Ashton Kutcher takes a selfie before the 2014 World Cup final between Germany and Argentina in Brazil

Friends: A Germany fan poses with a pair of Argentina supporters ahead of the 2014 World Cup final in Brazil

Stage: Shakira took to the centre of the Maracana pitch in Rio to perform his 'La La La (Brazil 2014)' song for the crowd before the big match

On stage: Shakira performs with musician Carlinhos Brown (left) during the closing ceremony of the 2014 World Cup at the Maracana in Rio

Show: The Maracana crowd will only hope Argentina and Germany continue the trend and put on a good performance in the World Cup final 2014

Guess who they support? A group of Argentina fans look confident ahead of the 2014 World Cup final in Brazil as they hope to make history with Lionel Messi

Music: Carlos Santana (left), Wyclef Jean (centre) and Alexandre Pires perform during the closing ceremony before the 2014 World Cup final

Joking: FIFA President Sepp Blatter (right) chats with ex-Barcelona player Carles Puyol and model Vanessa Lorenzo at the Maracana before the World Cup 2014 final

Stars: Former Italy star Fabio Cannavaro and ex-Germany international Lothar Matthaus arrive for the 2014 World Cup final in Brazil

Now that's a good selfie: Matthaus, Cannavaro and Daniel Passarella take a shot in the Maracana before the World Cup final

Excited: A Germany supporter gets ready for the World Cup 2014 final on Sunday as the Brazilian performers show off their colourful constructions on the Rio pitch

Group photo: The VIP guests pose ahead of the 2014 World Cup final in Brazil between Argentina and Germany

That's kind of them! German supporters reassure the Brazilians in the Maracana that they won't let Argentina beat them

Support: Two Germany fans were in the crowd nice and easy before kick off as Argentina and Lionel Messi stop in their way of making history

Chat: FIFA President Blatter talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin (left) ahead of the World Cup final 2014 in Brazil

Blue: An Argentine supporter waits for the start of the World Cup final as Germany stand in their way of making history

Colour: Performers take part in the closing ceremony at the Maracana in Rio de Janeiro before Argentina and Germany battle it out

Vibrant: The performers took to the same pitch that will be graced by Argentina's Lionel Messi and Germany's Thomas Muller in the final on Sunday

Dancers: The closing ceremony sees off the World Cup 2014 before the highly-anticipated final gets underway between Germany and Argentina in Brazil

Giant: A large inflatable Brazuca official ball is unleashed on the crowd inside the Maracana stadium in Rio de Janeiro before the World Cup final 2014

The scene: Germany and Argentina will take to the pitch to battle it out to make history in the 2014 World Cup final at 8pm

It started with plenty of colour - as expected of Brazil - as Samba music and dancers took over the Maracana pitch, before the Brazuca ball was brought out as a centre-piece.

Two freestylers, one dressed in a Germany kit and the other in an Argentina strip, took to the stage to show off their skills for the crowd.
Shakira's 'La La La (Brazil 2014)' song was performed alongside Brazilian percussionist and singer Carlinhos Brown.

Spectacular Fireworks Display at World Cup Closing Ceremony

05-07-14, 11:09	#52
Ladybbird Join Date: Feb 2011 Posts: 47,647 Thanks: 27,646 Thanked 14,458 Times in 10,262 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 8	re: Brazil 2014-GERMANY Wins World Cup+Closing Ceremony Neymar OUT of World Cup with Broken Bone in his Back after Suffering Injury in Brazil's Quarter-Final Victory over Colombia Juan Zuniga's challenge three minutes from time left Neymar hurt and in tears He was carried off on a stretcher and taken to hospital before team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar confirmed his tournament is over Neymar does not need surgery but is expected to be out for at least four weeks Crowds gather outside Sao Carlos Hospital after Neymar is taken in Brazil progress after 2-1 win despite Colombia comeback Players from all countries tweet 'Get well soon' messages Daily Mail UK, 5 July 2014 Brazil superstar Neymar will miss the remainder of the World Cup with a broken bone in his back. The 22-year-old, who had scored four times to lead his country to the quarter-finals, was carried off on a stretcher in the closing stages of Friday's 2-1 win over Colombia and taken to hospital. And team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar told local media in Brazil that Neymar will not kick another ball at the finals, expecting his recovery period to be at least four weeks. 'It's not serious in the sense that it doesn't need surgery, but he'll need to immobilize it to recover,' he told SportTV. 'Unfortunately, he's not going to be able to play. VIDEO: Scroll down to watch Neymar at hospital as his World Cup dream is crushed Agony: Neymar lies in agony after being kneed in the back just three minutes from the end Stretchered off: Neymar is carried away by medics leaving all Brazilian fans in a state of panic Carried away: Neymar was stretchered off the pitch and taken to hospital after Brazil's quarter-final win The damage: Brazilian television stations obtained an x-ray of Neymar's back and highlighted the broken bone Welcome back: There were emotional scenes as Neymar was greeted by his team-mates upon returning to the base at Teresopolis Cynical: With the ball nowhere near Juan Zuniga smashes his knee into the lower part of Neymar's back Man down: The Barcelona forward falls to the ground after the challenge that rules him out of the semi-final End of the line: Neymar is carried down the tunnel with his World Cup over Neymar arrives at hospital as his World Cup dream is crushed Neymar clutches his face as he leaves hospital clearly in pain 'The exact time (to play again) can be four to six weeks, but it is too early to confirm this. Let's wait for other tests. This is the first diagnosis we had. Initially, we know he will not be able to play.’ Neymar flew back to Rio de Janeiro from Fortaleza with the rest of his team-mates following the match and was then transported by ambulance to the team's training base at Teresopolis. The Barcelona forward had been struggling in the build-up to the all-South American clash with thigh and knee strains but was passed fit to start. But he was carried off three minutes from the end after Juan Zuniga's knee landed in his lower back leaving him in tears. Zuniga said: 'It was a normal move. I never meant to hurt a player. I was on the field, playing for the shirt from my country, not without the intent to injure. I was just defending my shirt.' Brazil manager Luiz Felipe Soclari, speaking before Lasmar's interview, said: 'I don't think he'll be able to play in the next match. Anxious wait: Brazil fans sit outside the Sao Carlos Hospital after Neymar is taken in National icon: The Barcelona forward is by far the most popular player in Luiz Felipe Scolari's squad Bittersweet: The elation at the victory was soon dampened as news filtered through of Neymar's injury 'He has been sent to a private clinic with the doctor because he was kneed in his lower back. He was crying in pain. It won't be easy for him to recover based on the fact that it's a back injury and with the pain he's in. Let's hope everything goes OK. ‘It might be that he could play in the final but at this moment, the next match is on July 8, I don’t think it is likely he can do it. But he is young, he has energy, he leads his life the right way and does all the right things. Let’s wait for the examination and see if there is something in the next 48 hours that can be done. In my opinion it’s going to be difficult. 'Us and them played a violent game, It was a corner kick when Neymar went in front and he came to stop the ball, but the referee decided and there is no point thinking about a punishment. Complaints: Defender Marcelo gesticulates as his team's star man lies prone on the ground in Fortaleza Treatment: Neymar was seen to on the pitch but had to be removed on a stretcher in the quarter-final 'We just hope that it isn't serious. But we just hope that in two or three days he will be able to rejoin us. ‘For the match against Germany it will be very difficult for Neymar to play based on what the doctor said. But we are not hopeful of this and if the injury is serious. 'It might be that he could play in the final but at this moment, the next match is on the 8th, I don’t think it is likely he can do it. 'But he is young, he has energy, he leads his life the right way and does all the right things. Let’s wait for the examination and see if there is something in the next 48 hours that can be done. In my opinion it’s going to be difficult.' Crowds of Brazilian fans swelled outside the Sao Carlos Hospital in Fortaleza as news filtered through that their hero had been taken there. Germany star Mesut Ozil, who is likely to start the semi-final against Brazil on Tuesday night, sent Neymar his best wishes on hearing the news, tweeting: 'Neymar, i am unhappy. get well soon.' Perfect 10: Brazil fans were pinning their hopes on Neymar producing the goods in the latter stages Captain Thiago Silva had opened the scoring in the first half before David Luiz's bullet free kick doubled Brazil's advantage after the break. James Rodriguez pulled a goal back from the spot with 10 minutes remaining but Jose Pekerman's side could not find an equaliser. Brazil will already be without the suspended Silva for the last-four showdown in Belo Horizonte. THE WORLD TWEETS ITS SYMPATHY FOR NEYMAR 'Neymar, I hope you recover very soon friend!' - Neymar's Barcelona team-mate and Argentina superstar Lionel Messi wrote on his Facebook page. 'Sending a big hug to this phenomenon of current football, @neymarjr' - former Brazil left-back Roberto Carlos. 'Hate to hear the news on Neymar! What a player. Have a speedy recovery/Get well asap man! #HesABeast #MyKidsFavPlayer' - basketball player LeBron James of the Miami Heat. 'All our support to @neymarjr! #ForcaNeymar' - Brazil president Dilma Rousseff. 'Have strength brother. @neymarjr we are together with you, we love you' - Brazil and Chelsea midfielder Willian. 'We had a great victory but also a great loss. Have strength @neymarjr, we partner with you always!' - Brazil striker Jo, formerly of Manchester City and Everton. 'Dear @Neymarjr, have strength, we are praying that your recovery is quick #forcaneymar' - Brazilian model Gisele Bundchen. 'Good recovery Neymar, God Bless you' - former Brazil international Gilberto Silva. 'Happy with our victory today, can't wait to face #Brasil, sad for @NeymarJr hope you get better soon #ForcaNeymar #eTois #poldi #worldcup' - Arsenal attacker Lukas Podolski, whose Germany side take on Brazil in the semi-finals. '@neymarjr brother! I am with you! Force!' - Italy striker Mario Balotelli. 'My brother @neymarjr - me, Luca, my family and a lot of people in this world are praying and hoping for your fast recovery!!' - former Brazil international Kaka. 'Strength, Brother! @neymarjr' Brazil and Tottenham midfielder Paulinho posted, along with a picture collage. 'We have one more reason to play with heart in this cup. Neymar, rest assured that our group loves you and give life to win this title for you. You were and continue to be the ace and the soul of our team. The whole of Brazil is praying for you!' Brazil team-mate Fred, whose Facebook post included a drawing of Neymar being surrounded by fans. 'Neymar, i am unhappy. get well soon' - Germany midfielder Mesut Ozil. Iced: Brazil's World Cup challenge will be significantly more difficult if they are without their key man Concern: Colombian playmaker James Rodrigues shows sympathy to his opposite number Neymar Stretchered Through Hospital by Worried Staff Neymar Clutches his Face as he Leaves Hospital Clearly in Pain __________________ PUTIN TRUMP & Netanyahu Will Meet in HELL ..................*SHARKS are Closing in on TRUMP*.......................... *TRUMP WARNS; 'There'll Be a Bloodbath* If I Don't Get Elected'..MAGA - MyAssGotArrested...IT's COMING** PLEASE HELP THIS SITE..Click DONATE & Thanks to ALL Members of ... 1.. THIS SITE IS MORE THAN JUST WAREZ...& TO STOP SPAM-IF YOU WANT TO POST, YOUR FIRST POST MUST BE IN WELCOMES

08-07-14, 15:11	#55
Ladybbird Join Date: Feb 2011 Posts: 47,647 Thanks: 27,646 Thanked 14,458 Times in 10,262 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 8	re: Brazil 2014-GERMANY Wins World Cup+Closing Ceremony Brazil Police Claim FIFA Official Linked to £60m World Cup Ticket Scam Daily Mail UK, 8 July 2014 Police in Rio de Janeiro have said a FIFA official is involved in multi-million pound ticket scandal. Officers have arrested 11 suspected ticket touts as part of an investigation called Operation Jules Rimet, which has tapped the mobile phones of the suspects. Fabio Barucke, the police investigator in charge of the case, said a FIFA official who was a source of the tickets had access to FIFA offices and stadiums and match tickets. Probe: The suspected ringleader, Mohamadou Lamine Fofana, had stayed at the Copacabana Palace hotel Some tickets have been re-sold for eight times their face value. Investigators are planning to meet FIFA and its official ticket agency MATCH, which sells World Cup hospitality packages. FIFA's head of media Delia Fischer said it had not received any information from the police identifying the person. She said: 'Maybe it's not from FIFA - it's often easy to come to a conclusion about who is FIFA.' Barucke said the ticketing ring aimed to make up to £60million by illegally re-selling tickets and that the group had operated at previous World Cups. Scam: The ticketing ring aimed to make up to £60million by illegally re-selling tickets The suspected ringleader has been named as Mohamadou Lamine Fofana, an Algerian man who was previously staying at the Copacabana Palace hotel, where all the FIFA top executives are staying. Barucke believes Fofana was the middleman and that the ticket source was 'someone higher up' the chain. He said: 'He [Fofana] has tickets from hospitality, from MATCH, and he was close friends with someone from FIFA who was in the middle of that negotiation - who was helping out with that negotiation. 'We were able to identify there is the participation of someone from FIFA.' __________________ PUTIN TRUMP & Netanyahu Will Meet in HELL ..................*SHARKS are Closing in on TRUMP*.......................... *TRUMP WARNS; 'There'll Be a Bloodbath* If I Don't Get Elected'..MAGA - MyAssGotArrested...IT's COMING** PLEASE HELP THIS SITE..Click DONATE & Thanks to ALL Members of ... 1.. THIS SITE IS MORE THAN JUST WAREZ...& TO STOP SPAM-IF YOU WANT TO POST, YOUR FIRST POST MUST BE IN WELCOMES

14-07-14, 13:40	#60
Ladybbird Join Date: Feb 2011 Posts: 47,647 Thanks: 27,646 Thanked 14,458 Times in 10,262 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 8	re: Brazil 2014-GERMANY Wins World Cup+Closing Ceremony World Cup Closing Ceremony 2014 sees Shakira, Rihanna, David Beckham, Pele, Tom Brady, Vladimir Putin and More in the Crowd as Celebrities Spotted at Maracana in Rio de Janeiro for Final World Cup final 2014 between Argentina and Germany- the closing ceremony at the Maracana will follow Shakira headlines the closing ceremony in Rio de Janeiro before World Cup in Brazil comes to an end American football star Tom Brady and supermodel wife Gisele Bundchen spotted getting cosy at Maracana, with Carles Puyol, Sepp Blatter and Rihanna among other VIP guests David Beckham, Pele, Kaka and Russian President Vladimir Putin spotted in crowd ahead of highly-anticipated game For plenty, the World Cup coming to an end is unwelcome after more than a month of explosive football on the biggest of stages. But Brazil, just as they did for the opening ceremony, were looking to make sure they see off the 2014 World Cup with a bang. The location? The Maracana in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The reason? Celebrating the World Cup final between Argentina and Germany arriving. Among those spotted for the showdown was American football star Tom Brady, who was getting cosy with his Brazilian supermodel wife Gisele Bundchen, and FIFA President Sepp Blatter, who was chatting to former Barcelona star Carles Puyol and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Scroll down for video Excited: Shakira (centre) and her partner Barcelona's Gerard Pique (right) smile during the closing ceremony of the 2014 World Cup on Sunday at the Maracana High spirits: Shakira was the headline act of the closing ceremony before the World Cup final 2014 between Argentina and Germany in Rio de Janeiro Excited: Rihanna takes her seat for the 2014 World Cup final with her fellow celebrities during the closing ceremony ahead of Germany vs Argentina Spotted: American football star Tom Brady and Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bundchen were at the Maracana in Rio de Janeiro for the World Cup final 2014 Familiar faces... Former Brazil international Kaka, Brazil legend Pele and ex-England midfielder David Beckham pose ahead of the 2014 World Cup final Pals: Pele and Beckham looked in high spirits ahead of the 2014 World Cup final between Argentina and Germany in Rio de Janeiro Hopeful: Lena Gercke, the girlfriend of Germany's Sami Khedira, waits for the start of the 2014 World Cup final in Rio Star: Ashton Kutcher takes a selfie before the 2014 World Cup final between Germany and Argentina in Brazil Friends: A Germany fan poses with a pair of Argentina supporters ahead of the 2014 World Cup final in Brazil Stage: Shakira took to the centre of the Maracana pitch in Rio to perform his 'La La La (Brazil 2014)' song for the crowd before the big match On stage: Shakira performs with musician Carlinhos Brown (left) during the closing ceremony of the 2014 World Cup at the Maracana in Rio Show: The Maracana crowd will only hope Argentina and Germany continue the trend and put on a good performance in the World Cup final 2014 Guess who they support? A group of Argentina fans look confident ahead of the 2014 World Cup final in Brazil as they hope to make history with Lionel Messi Music: Carlos Santana (left), Wyclef Jean (centre) and Alexandre Pires perform during the closing ceremony before the 2014 World Cup final Joking: FIFA President Sepp Blatter (right) chats with ex-Barcelona player Carles Puyol and model Vanessa Lorenzo at the Maracana before the World Cup 2014 final Stars: Former Italy star Fabio Cannavaro and ex-Germany international Lothar Matthaus arrive for the 2014 World Cup final in Brazil Now that's a good selfie: Matthaus, Cannavaro and Daniel Passarella take a shot in the Maracana before the World Cup final Excited: A Germany supporter gets ready for the World Cup 2014 final on Sunday as the Brazilian performers show off their colourful constructions on the Rio pitch Group photo: The VIP guests pose ahead of the 2014 World Cup final in Brazil between Argentina and Germany That's kind of them! German supporters reassure the Brazilians in the Maracana that they won't let Argentina beat them Support: Two Germany fans were in the crowd nice and easy before kick off as Argentina and Lionel Messi stop in their way of making history Chat: FIFA President Blatter talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin (left) ahead of the World Cup final 2014 in Brazil Blue: An Argentine supporter waits for the start of the World Cup final as Germany stand in their way of making history Colour: Performers take part in the closing ceremony at the Maracana in Rio de Janeiro before Argentina and Germany battle it out Vibrant: The performers took to the same pitch that will be graced by Argentina's Lionel Messi and Germany's Thomas Muller in the final on Sunday Dancers: The closing ceremony sees off the World Cup 2014 before the highly-anticipated final gets underway between Germany and Argentina in Brazil Giant: A large inflatable Brazuca official ball is unleashed on the crowd inside the Maracana stadium in Rio de Janeiro before the World Cup final 2014 The scene: Germany and Argentina will take to the pitch to battle it out to make history in the 2014 World Cup final at 8pm It started with plenty of colour - as expected of Brazil - as Samba music and dancers took over the Maracana pitch, before the Brazuca ball was brought out as a centre-piece. Two freestylers, one dressed in a Germany kit and the other in an Argentina strip, took to the stage to show off their skills for the crowd. Shakira's 'La La La (Brazil 2014)' song was performed alongside Brazilian percussionist and singer Carlinhos Brown. Spectacular Fireworks Display at World Cup Closing Ceremony __________________ PUTIN TRUMP & Netanyahu Will Meet in HELL ..................*SHARKS are Closing in on TRUMP*.......................... *TRUMP WARNS; 'There'll Be a Bloodbath* If I Don't Get Elected'..MAGA - MyAssGotArrested...IT's COMING** PLEASE HELP THIS SITE..Click DONATE & Thanks to ALL Members of ... 1.. THIS SITE IS MORE THAN JUST WAREZ...& TO STOP SPAM-IF YOU WANT TO POST, YOUR FIRST POST MUST BE IN WELCOMES

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