BRAZIL WITHOUT NEYMAR FOR THE REST OF THE WORLD CUP?

FORTALEZA, Brazil — For Brazil soccer fans, it will be rather unfortunate for Brazil's team without their world ranking superstar striker, Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior. 

Brazil's worst fears have been confirmed. When Neymar left the pitch against Colombia on a stretcher on Friday following a reckless challenge by Juan Zuniga, a nation held its breath. 

But just two hours later, team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar told the Brazilian public on live television just what they didn't want to hear: Neymar was out of the World Cup.

Neymar will miss the rest of the World Cup after breaking a vertebrae during the team's quarterfinal win over Colombia. 

Neymar was kneed in the back by Colombia defender Juan Camilo Zuniga in the second half of Brazil's 2-1 quarterfinal win over Colombia on Friday. He was crying in pain as he was carried off the field on a stretcher. 

The Brazilian striker was taken to a local clinic, and team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar said after the match that he had broken his third vertebrae.

Brazil coach Luiz Felipe Scolari said earlier Friday evening that Neymar may not be able to play against Germany in the World Cup semifinals due to his injury. 

"It will be very difficult for Neymar to play" next Tuesday in Belo Horizonte, Scolari said.

At 22 years old, Neymar is already considered one of the world's most exciting players. 

Although he only weighs 140 pounds, the striker makes up for his small stature with quickness, agility and exceptional skill.
Brazil will also play its next match without captain Thiago Silva, who will be forced to sit out for one game, after earning his second yellow card on Friday. However, the Brazil boss claimed his side could cope without the 22-year-old Neymar.

Source: Agensies