Brazil succumbed to a shocking 2-1 defeat against Belgium in Kazan.
It was a nail-biting encounter that lived up to its initial hype, despite looking poised to be a one-sided affair in its early stages thanks to the Red Devils' dominance.
Romelu Lukaku featured in an unfamiliar role on the right flank, but it was all part of Roberto Martinez's tactical masterclass to exploit Belgium's defensive foibles and utilise Kevin De Bryune's creative prowess to the fullest extent.
The game began with Belgium on the front foot – the likes of Nacer Chadli, Lukaku, Eden Hazard and De Bryune combined to put pressure on Brazil's backline, thus leaving the impression that Brazil will be unable to keep up with Martinez' side during the entire tie.
Fernandinho put Belgium in front in the 13th minute as Vincent Kompany flicked the ball from a corner kick which then inadvertently came off Fernandinho and into the back of the net.
De Bruyne dealt Brazil another blow in the 31st minute as he capped off a fine run from Lukaku with a deft finish to double his side's lead.
Tite's men struggled for the remainder of the first 45 minutes, prompting the manager to replace Willian with Roberto Firmino at the start of the second-half.
The Liverpool man introduced some much needed invention to the team but ultimately failed to find the back of the net.
The introduction of Douglas Costa for the misfiring Gabriel Jesus in the 58th minute spurred Brazil on to stage a comeback with the Juventus winger putting up a fine individual display which appeared to inspire his teammates to push for a goal.
Brazil's breakthrough came via Renato Augusto who bagged a header in the 76th minute after coming on just three minutes earlier for Paulinho. Shortly after, Augusto was presented with an opportunity to draw things level, but he played the ball wide.
Brazil's last meaningful piece of play came when Neymar attempted to curl the ball into the top right corner from just outside Belgium's 18-yard-area. His effort was pushed out for a corner by Thibaut Courtois.
From then on the game dragged until the referee blew his whistle to confirm Belgium's progression into the semi-finals, where they will play France.
WORLD CUP - QUARTERFINALS
Brazil - 1 (Augusto 76')
Belgium - 2 (Fernandinho OG 13', De Bruyne 31')
Kazan Arena, Kazan
