Brazil had no idea how to contend with Belgium’s ferocity on the counter during the first half of the Red Devils’ “really beautiful” 2-1 World Cup quarter-final win, according to Kevin De Bruyne.
Thibaut Courtois had a defiant message for his detractors after a fine display in Belgium’s quarter-final win over Brazil, adamant he proved himself after ‘unfair’ criticism.
Brazil are out of the World Cup at the expense of Belgium, as Neymar failed to inspire in his lead role.
Belgium scored two first half goals and then survived a late comeback from Brazil to win 2-1 and secure a spot in the final four of the World Cup.
Belgium booked a World Cup semi-final against France as Brazil’s hopes of winning a sixth title were ended by a 2-1 defeat in Kazan.
Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku believes his team can punish Brazil’s defence in their World Cup quarter-final.
France coach Didier Deschamps has backed Kylian Mbappe to get even better after his impressive display against Argentina at the World Cup.
Roberto Martinez has given Brazil a huge indication as to how Belgium will approach their World Cup quarter-final on Friday, acknowledging a need for ‘power’ which could result in Marouane Fellaini starting.
Brazil defender Danilo has been ruled out for the rest of the World Cup due to an ankle injury.
Just eight teams remain at the World Cup, and few would have predicted that so many big names would be missing from the quarter-finals in Russia.