Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne boss Brazil to book World Cup semi final place

Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne boss Brazil to book World Cup semi final place

Belgium's golden generation shone brightly to knock Brazil out of the World Cup as an own goal from Fernandinho and a blistering Kevin de Bruyne effort helped secure a 2-1 win.

It could have been a different story had Brazi; capitalised on their bright start which saw them threaten Thibaut Courtois' goal with virtually every attack and should have been ahead when Thiago Silva prodded against the post from point blank range.

An unfortunate own goal from Fernandinho, however, turned the tide in Belgium's favour in the 13th minute as the Manchester City midfielder headed past his own goalkeeper with his view having been obstructed by his club teammate Vincent Kompany.

The goal allowed Robert Martinez's side to sit back, absorb pressure and hit their opponents on the break, a tactic which bore fruit just past the half hour.

Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne boss Brazil to book World Cup semi final place

Fernandinho's own goal gave Belgium the lead

Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne boss Brazil to book World Cup semi final place

Romelu Lukaku collected Marouane Fellaini's header deep inside his own half, powered away from three opponents and laid the ball into the path of Kevin de Bruyne who smashed an ustoppable shot into the far corner from the edge of the penalty area.

Tite made a change at the break with Roberto Firmino replacing the ineffective Willian but despite dominating possession Brazil were still unable to offer a serious threat. Neymar was fortunate not to have been booked when he fell dramatically under minimal contact from Fellaini in the box.

Belgium looked to be heading to a convincing win but substitute Renato Augusto brought Brazil back into the contest with a well placed header 14 minutes from the end.

Augusto and Coutinho both missed presentable chances in the closing stages but it is Belgium who go through to meet France in the last four.

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