Live Coverage: World Cup live: July 8 - as it happened

One thing is for sure. The second semi-final has a lot to live up to. Jack Prescott will be in the chair from 11am today, bringing you all the build-up and news from Sao Paulo. Until then it's good night!

However, that record was gazumped by the outcome of the game in Belo Horizonte. An expectant home crowd in the Estadio Minerao may have hoped for victory, but what they got was Brazil's worst defeat in 94 years as they were beaten 7-1 (you did read that scoreline correctly, I promise). Fans of the Selecao and players were brought to tears.

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So, a quick recap from today at the World Cup. Miroslav Klose finally became the all-time leading scorer in World Cup finals with 16 goals to his name, during the first half of Germany's semi-final with Brazil.

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Before we wrap up tonight's coverage of the World Cup, I will point you towards Wednesday's semi-final in Sao Paulo between Argentina and the Netherlands. Will Lionel Messi take a step closer to the trophy or will the Dutch reach a second consecutive final? Jack Prescott previews the highly anticipated encounter and Sports Mole will have live commentary of the game.

However, Toni Kroos has gone further by saying that he is "convinced" that the three-time World champions will lift the trophy again this weekend.

"We have to deliver another absolutely top performance otherwise we will lose the final - and I am convinced we will win," Kroos told reporters.

Mats Hummels has already called on Germany's players to begin focusing on Sunday's World Cup final against Argentina or the Netherlands. The 25-year-old also admitted that the squad was "surprisingly quiet" after their 7-1 win over Brazil, because they knew that they were going to final with a hour of the game left to play.

Brazil keeper Julio Cesar has said that the manner of their defeat on Tuesday evening was "inexplicable". The Queens Park Rangers player was forced to pick the ball out of his net on five occasions as Germany were out of sight before half-time.

Joachim Low has said his players were aware of Brazil "cracking up" midway through the first half of Germany victory in Belo Horizonte and he claimed that his team were able to capitalise as a result.

He told reporters: "Scoring three in four minutes, the hosts were in shock. We were extremely cool and realised they were cracking up, and we took advantage of that."

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Meanwhile, Germany's prolific forward Thomas Muller has called on his teammates not to get carried away with their defeat of Brazil. Joachim Low's men will face the winner of the second semi-final between Argentina and the Netherlands and will be hoping to win the World Cup for the first time in 24 years.

So, before I may have said that some Brazil player's were worthy of a zero out of 10 rating for tonight's showing against Germany. Well, all I'll say is Barney Corkhill's player ratings for the first World Cup semi-final make for an interesting read!

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Alan Hansen has called Brazil's loss to Germany to lowest point in the 50 years that he has been watching the Selecao.

"You have to give Germany credit but that is a woeful, woeful performance that could not get any lower. I don't think the Germans can believe what they have just done. Nobody could have summed this up," the Scot told BBC Sport.

I mentioned earlier that Louis van Gaal was expecting a close game on Wednesday, but how many people were expecting the outgoing Dutch coach to link-up with his new team, Manchester United, within a week of the World Cup Final? Reports suggest that the 62-year-old will be joining the Red Devils on their pre-season tour of United States.

While Brazil manager Luiz Felipe Scolari has been his country for forgiveness, ex-Selecao midfielder Juninho has suggested that several of the current squad may have made their last international apperance.

During the game, a number of Brazil players were jeered by the predominantly home crowd in Belo Horizonte.

Brazil's manager Luiz Felipe Scolari has taken the blame for his country's igniminious exit for the World Cup at the hands of Germany.

He told reporters: "Who is responsible for this result? I am, it's me. The blame for this catastrophic result can be shared between us all, but the person who decided the line-up, the tactics was me. It was my choice."

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Briefly looking ahead to Wednesday and the second semi-final between the Netherlands and Argentina in Sao Paulo. Dutch coach Louis van Gaal has said he is expecting a close game between the two sides. Van Gaal even suggests that his side may need some luck to emerge victorious.

Barney's been very busy this evening. His analysis of the first semi-final is now ready for your perusal. Turn away if you're not one for criticism of Brazil!

So you may be forgiven for thinking that Brazil didn't concede seven (yes seven!) goals tonight. Well Barney Corkhill's commentary is available to remind you that it really did happen. Minutes 22-29 make for particularly interesting reading!

David Luiz has apologised to "all the Brazilian people" for his team's display in the 7-1 defeat against Germany. Luiz deputised as captain for Thiago Silva, who was banned for the semi-final.

"Apologies to everybody, apologies to all the Brazilian people. I just wanted to see my people smile. We all know how important it was for me to see all of Brazil be happy, at least because of football," BBC Sport quotes the defender as saying.

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Some rare good news for the Brazilian nation. A study has claimed that the country has received a $13.5bn (£7.9bn) economic boost from staging the tournament. Before and throughout the World Cup, thousands of protesters have vented their anger at the cost of staging the event against a backdrop of poverty and under investment in areas of Brazilian society.

Before the clock strikes 2am, we'll hopefully bring you reaction to Miroslav Klose's record-breaking night. The Lazio forward is now the all-time leading goalscorer in World Cup finals with 16 goals, overtaking Ronaldo in the process. It really was a bad night for the Brazilians!

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So coming up in next few hours, we'll reaction from Belo Horizonte. Sports Mole's very own Barney Corkhill will be providing analysis on tonight's proceedings. He'll also be offering his players ratings for both Germany and Brazil. Any chance that members of the Selecao will score zero based on this evening's display? Perhaps not, but you'll be the first to know!

Thank you Callum...wow! Is there a chance I'll wake up and that result will be a mere dream? I thought the latter stages of a World Cup involved cagey encounters? I'm with you for the next few hours. To be honest it may take that long for us all to come to terms with tonight's events.

Are you still struggling to work out what happened tonight? Have a read of the match report while you attempt to recover from a stunning couple of hours at this crazy World Cup. That's all from me tonight, but Chris O'Keefe is here to bring you all of the reaction.

FULL TIME: Oscar scores in the final minute, but not even a late consolation goal can save the hosts from humiliation. Brazil have been awful, but a fantastic German display has seen Joachim Low's side book their spot in the World Cup final in incredible fashion.

GOAL! There's a round of applause inside the stadium as the Brazilian supporters admit defeat when Schurrle fires in Germany's sixth from the tightest of angles. It's 7-0! I've never seen anything like this at a World Cup.

GOAL! The jeers are getting louder as Germany make it 6-0 with one of the easiest goals you will see scored at the World Cup. Philipp Lahm rolls the ball across the box to substitute Andre Schurrle, who has the simple task of tapping in from a few yards out.

Away from the madness in Belo Horizonte, Louis van Gaal has turned up the pressure on Lionel Messi ahead of the second semi-final by suggesting the Argentina forward has struggled to produce his best on the biggest stage.

Brazil have made a very bright start to the second half, with Manuel Neuer making a number of good saves to keep his sheet clean. Where was they in the first half? Too little, too late for the Brazilians.

The players are back out on the pitch, but I'm not sure if the Brazilians want to be there anymore. It's about damage limitation for the hosts now as they look to avoid any further embarrassment. How many more goals can Germany score?

You can read a full recap of an incredible first half in Belo Horizonte with my half time report. I'm not sure if anyone could have predicted this happening.

HALF TIME: It's jeers from the home supporters as the referee brings one of the most incredible 45 minutes of football to a close in Belo Horizonte. Germany lead Brazil 5-0 after a completely dominant display from Joachim Low's men. It's been embarrassing for Luiz Felipe Scolari.

GOAL! There is not time to bring you any other news from Brazil because we are seeing one of the worst defensive displays ever at a World Cup. Amazingly, it is now 5-0 to Germany as Khedira slots home from just a few yards out with the Brazilian defenders looking desperate and helpless inside the box. Germany don't seem to be finished, either.

GOALS! What on earth is going on in Belo Horizonte? Kroos arrives late on the scene to fire past Cesar to make it 3-0 in the 24th minute, and the lead is extended even further just moments later when Germany take advantage of some crazy defending to set up Kroos for his second. Germany lead 4-0, and the clock hasn't hit 30 minutes. Incredible.

GOAL! Miroslav Klose has done it. The German become the record goalscorer at the World Cup by tapping home after seeing his first opportunity saved. Brazil trail by 2-0 with three quarters of the game remaining. Is there any way back?

GOAL! It's been an exciting start in Belo Horizonte, and the deadlock is broken in just the 11th minute when Thomas Muller converts after finding himself in plenty of space to meet a corner. Germany score a huge early goal!

KICKOFF: Germany get the game underway. Who will be the first side to book their spot in Sunday's World Cup final?

If you're eager to follow the match between Brazil and Germany more closely, then make sure you join Barney Corkhill for his live text coverage. The national anthems are now being played, with the first whistle just moments away.

One more word from the Argentines before the match gets started in Belo Horizonte. Javier Mascherano has called for more help to be given to Lionel Messi as Alejandro Sabella's side prepare to met the Netherlands in 24 hours.

Deafening roar as Brazil emerge at Estadio Mineirao. And that's just for the warm up pic.twitter.com/I63DvQDNva — Oliver Holt (@OllieHolt22) July 8, 2014

Sergio Romero, the Argentine goalkeeper who worked with Louis van Gaal at AZ Alkmaar, admits that he has a lot to thank the Dutch coach for ahead of tomorrow's second semi-final between their two nations, and has labelled the new Manchester United manager his saviour.

Before the action gets underway in Belo Horizonte, there's some strong words coming from the Netherlands camp ahead of Wednesday's semi-final against Argentina. Stefan de Vrij has insisted that he is not scared of battling Lionel Messi as the Dutch look to reach a second successive final.

Thank you, Pascal! The first semi-final is less than an hour away. The two teams are in, with a surprise or two from both managers. Miroslav Klose has been trusted to lead the line for Germany. Will the World Cup legend end Brazilian hopes tonight?

Anyway, time for me to say goodbye and pass you over to Callum Mulvihill, who will guide you through the game in Belo Horizonte as well as bring you more World Cup news. Enjoy the game!

Here's the full team news article. No changes for Germany, three for Brazil.

And surprisingly, Miroslav Klose keeps his place in the Germany team!

GERMANY XI: Neuer; Lahm, Hummels, Boateng, Hoewedes; Khedira, Schweinsteiger, Kroos; Ozil, Klose, Muller

Indeed Bernard does start!

BRAZIL XI: Julio Cesar; Maicon, David Luiz, Dante, Marcelo; Fernandinho, Gustavo; Bernard, Oscar, Hulk; Fred

We're expecting team news very soon and rumours are just emerging that Luiz Felipe Scolari has replaced Neymar in the starting lineup with Bernard. Bold move!

Although Van Persie might have to sit out for Netherlands tomorrow, Oranje could be boosted by the sensational return of Nigel de Jong. More here.

There is set to be thousands of these tonight!

We have an in-depth two-hour buildup for tonight's semi and it's just started right here with Barney Corkhill. Enjoy!

Here's the developing story on Van Persie's possible absence.

BREAKING! Netherlands frontman Robin van Persie could miss tomorrow's second semi-final with a stomach problem. More soon.

Did you know Neymar was injured tonight? I'm sure you did and he has been all over social media this afternoon wishing his teammates well for tonight's game. Here's a Facebook post that encourages fans to get behind the other members of the Brazil squad:

Anyone want to see something cute? Well check out this video of a kitten called Lionel - named after Mr Messi - living up to his name by chasing the ball around a TV screen.

Just seen this from Chile's Jorge Valdivia in training, incredi-curl!

The Argentina team have arrived in Sao Paulo!

En Sao Paulo!!!! pic.twitter.com/uK2PCuYi5y — Javier Mascherano (@Mascherano) July 8, 2014

In case you missed it earlier, here's our feature on the last World Cup meeting between Brazil and Germany in the 2002 final.

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Mirror journalist Ollie Holt tweets: "Been to Belo Horizonte three times during this World Cup. Handsome, verdant city with a great feel to it."

Nice picture from Stan Collymore showing the current scene at the Mineirao stadium in Belo Horizonte:

#BRA V #GER @talkSPORT LIVE from 8 What a game!! Check in @SportsYapper pic.twitter.com/V89NI1mxMT

— Stan Collymore (@StanCollymore) July 8, 2014

Argentina coach Alejandro Sabella is somewhat of a cult hero at Sheffield United and Blades fans who remember his stint in the late 70s are sure to be cheering his team on when they face Netherlands tomorrow night in the second semi. Former teammate Tony Kenworthy has described the 59-year-old as a "fantastic lad".

You can cast your vote on who you think will win tonight with our poll right here. It's ever so close at the moment, with Germany just in front on 51.3%. As you'll see in the video below, I think that it'll be 1-0 to Joachim Low's men. Just can't see Brazil winning without their two best players.

Thanks Liam. Just four hours until kickoff in Belo Horizonte! Should be a belter between Brazil and Germany and you can see what me, Matt Law and Barney Corkhill thought on the Sports Mole Sofa below:

And that is as far as I take you today. Taking you through the next three hours will be Pascal Lemesre - over to you Pascal...

Yet, while there could be bad news where Vlaar is concerned, there has been a potential boost for Holland. Midfielder Nigel de Jong had earlier been ruled out of the tournament with a groin complaint, but he took part in training today, sparking rumours that he could be fit enough to claim a place on the bench against the Argentines.

What of the Dutch, who take on Argentina in the other semi-final tomorrow night? Well, it would seem that they may be without centre-back Ron Vlaar because of a knee problem. He may not be the quickest, but the Aston Villa defender has been solid throughout the tournament and will be a big mess.

For the full story on that Foster outburst, look no further.

Anyone remember that England actually played at this World Cup?! Well, it would seem that goalkeeper Ben Foster has taken exception to criticism aimed at the squad by a journalist:

Some of the stuff Adrian Durham writes is utter shite. Some of the most negative stuff you can read, comes from this guy..

— Ben Foster (@BenFoster) July 8, 2014

Kroos's excitement is mis-placed, though, according to Cardiff City's Brazilian full-back Fabio da Silva. The former Manchester United defender believes that the home support will help Brazil to advance through to the final tonight.

We've heard a lot from the Brazilian camp this afternoon, but let's not forget that Germany are a very good side. Moments ago, their midfielder Toni Kroos took to Twitter to show his excitement:

Matchday !!! #BRAGER #worldcup2014

— Toni Kroos (@ToniKroos) July 8, 2014

Let's move away from Brazil and tonight's game for a moment because one of the tournament's most impressive goalkeepers - Keylor Navas - could be on the move according to reports. He is currently with Levante, but it's believed that a move to German giants Bayern Munich is in the offing, with an £8m fee being mooted.

Of course, the reason why many believe that Brazil are the underdogs tonight is the fact that Neymar is out with a back injury. In what has been a very workmanlike Brazil side, the Barcelona man has provided the flair. Juan Zuniga, who caused the injury, has received plenty of criticism, but his club - Napoli - have stood by the Colombian defender this afternoon.

And he doesn't stop there either:

I only remember them being dangerous from set plays? This is not a Brazil side to fall in love with. They way they went about the last game — Joseph Barton (@Joey7Barton) July 8, 2014

I'd be delighted for them to get pumped and go out. Kicked the life out of James Rodriguez and cry when 'The Pony' got kicked, once! — Joseph Barton (@Joey7Barton) July 8, 2014

Barton really is going to town on Brazil right now. It's fair to say that he's not an admirer of the hosts:

Germany will have to massively under perform for Brazil to progress. Amazed by how many sensible people have been sucked by them. — Joseph Barton (@Joey7Barton) July 8, 2014

Severe lack of flair of creativity in offensive areas. Arguably their best defender out. Guy who does tricks out. They're in serious trouble — Joseph Barton (@Joey7Barton) July 8, 2014

Joey Barton is not shy to voice his opinion, is he?! On Twitter this afternoon, the Queens Park Rangers midfielder has branded Brazil captain Thiago Silva "stupid" and believes that he "should be getting caned". To find out why, read on.

Somewhat strangely, this will be just the second time that Brazil and Germany have met at the World Cup. Considering how deep both nations have gone on numerous occasions, you would have expected their paths to have crossed more than that. Anyway, we've looked back on that fixture, which was in fact the final of 2002. To find out what happened, click here.

Thanks Jack and afternoon all. What better way to start to the stint than with a tweet from Brazilian centre-back David Luiz, who has paid tribute to the injured Neymar ahead of tonight's semi-final against Germany:

Tamo junto, irmão @neymarjr . Amanhã você entra em campo com a gente! #JOGAPRAELE pic.twitter.com/bRbp9a6eTf

— David Luiz (@DavidLuiz_4) July 7, 2014

That's all from me for today, but I'm pleased to say that Liam Apicella will be with you for the next three hours to take you through all of the latest news and gossip coming out of Brazil.

Germany defender Mats Hummels has claimed that beating Brazil on their home turf is "one of the toughest challenges in world football". With Brazil not losing a competitive match at home since 1975, Hummels admits that he and his teammates will have to be at their best if they want to progress.

Germany midfielder Sami Khedira has claimed that the team is "desperate" to win the World Cup. While praising Die Manschafft for making it through to the semi-finals, Khedira insists that the squad is eager to go all the way this year.

With all of the focus currently on the two semi-finals, now is probably a good time to check out our previews. Follow the links below to get the lowdown ahead of the two encounters:

Brazil vs. Germany

Argentina vs. Netherlands

Argentina midfielder Javier Mascherano has claimed that possession will be key for his side during their World Cup semi-final against the Netherlands.

"We need to make sure we don't lose the ball unnecessarily," he told FIFA.com. "Concentration will be key, along with the way we set our stall out in the match, and we will need to be patient when it comes to making decisions."

Netherlands legend John Cruyff has expressed his disappointment at the style of football that Brazil and Argentina have played at the World Cup. The two South-American nations have both made it through to the last four of the tournament, though their stuttering performances up to now have garnered some criticism.

Former England captain David Beckham has wished Neymar a quick recovery following the news that the Brazil forward will miss the rest of the World Cup through injury. It was confirmed last Saturday that the 22-year-old would be sidelined for the remainder of the tournament after he suffered a fractured vertebra during his side's quarter-final win over Colombia.

With Brazil and Germany facing off this evening, why not reacquaint yourself with their meeting in the 2002 final. As was so often the case, Ronaldo was the star for the Selecao as a 2-0 win saw them lift the trophy for a record fifth time.

Brazil forward Hulk has given his backing to stand-in captain David Luiz ahead of the team's World Cup semi-final with Germany. The enigmatic defender will skipper the host nation in Belo Horizonte tonight (Tuesday) due to the absence of the suspended Thiago Silva.

Former Italy goalkeeper Dino Zoff has become the latest name to heap praise on Germany shotstopper Manuel Neuer. Along with Brazil's Julio Cesar and Costa Rica's Keylor Navas, Neuer has been among a number of goalkeepers who have impressed so far at the World Cup.

Roberto Mancini has stated that he would be privileged to become the new head coach of Italy. The 49-year-old left Galatasaray at the end of the season after just nine months in charge, despite guiding the club to a second-place finish in the Super Lig.

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Javier Mascherano has urged his Argentina teammates not to get carried away ahead of their World Cup semi-final against the Netherlands. The South Americans face the Dutch in Sao Paulo on Wednesday evening with a place in Sunday's final at stake.

Former Italy coach Cesare Prandelli has paid tribute to the national team following his appointment at Galatasaray. The 56-year-old was in charge of the Azzurri for four years before stepping down after their early exit at the World Cup.

Germany defender Jerome Boateng has claimed that the "whole stadium" will be against his side when they face Brazil in the World Cup semi-finals. As if you didn't know, Die Manschafft face the host nation in Belo Horizonte this evening with the winner going through to Sunday's final.

Germany boss Joachim Low: 'Brazil are favourites'

Brazil winger Willian: 'Don't compare me to Neymar'

Germany's Bastian Schweinsteiger praises Brazil coaching setup

Juninho expects Brazil to defeat Germany in World Cup semi-final

Neville Southall tips Costa Rica's Keylor Navas for Premier League move

Hello and welcome to Sports Mole's live news coverage from the World Cup in Brazil. Having gone two horrible days without football, the tournament gets back underway this evening with the hosts meeting Germany in Belo Horizonte for a place in Sunday's final. We will be bringing you all of the latest news and gossip ahead of that match throughout the course of the day, but let's get the ball rolling by checking out some of the headlines from overnight...