World Cup: Neymar could miss semi-final - Scolari
AFP
July 5, 2014 09:20 MYT
July 5, 2014 09:20 MYT
Brazil's Neymar screams out after being fouled during the World Cup quarterfinal soccer match between Brazil and Colombia at the Arena Castelao in Fortaleza, Brazil, Friday, July 4, 2014. - AP Photo/Manu Fernandez
Star forward Neymar is a major doubt for Brazil's semi-final with Germany after being stretchered off in Friday's win over Colombia, coach Luiz Felipe Scolari said.
Neymar was carried off grimacing in agony after a heavy challenge from Colombia defender Juan Camillo Zuniga toward the end of Brazil's 2-1 win in Fortaleza.
The 22-year-old was whisked to hospital for tests after the incident and Scolari said afterwards he was now doubtful to recover in time.
"He was kneed in the lower back," Scolari said.
"We don't have the exact information but I can guarantee it won't be easy for him to recover based on what the doctor told us and the pain he is in.
"It will be very difficult for him to play."
Any injury to Neymar would be a massive blow to Brazil's hopes of beating Germany and advancing to the final.
The Barcelona superstar has been integral to Brazil's World Cup campaign so far, scoring four goals en route to the last four.