Brazil reach World Cup semi-finals

Thiago Silva and David Luiz on target as hosts see off Colombia

Brazil will face Germany in the semi-finals of the World Cup after a 2-1 win over Colombia in Fortaleza.

Thiago Silva headed the hosts into the lead on seven minutes, before David Luiz doubled their advantage with a stunning free-kick just after the hour mark. James Rodriguez pulled a goal back for Colombia from the penalty spot with 10 minutes remaining, but Brazil held on to book their place in the last four.

The victory was Brazil's first in the knockout stages of the World Cup since 2002, and they will now be confident of going all the way and winning the tournament on home soil.

However, they will face a tough test in the semi-finals against Germany, who have been in impressive form throughout the tournament. The two sides met in the semi-finals of the 2002 World Cup, with Brazil winning 2-0. A repeat of that result would see Brazil reach the final for the first time since 2002.