Brazil forward Neymar has been ruled out of the World Cup after fracturing a vertebra in his back in the closing stages of the 2-1 quarter-final win over Colombia on Friday in a major blow to the host nation.

Neymar, who has scored four goals in the tournament, will miss the semi-final against Germany in Belo Horizonte on Tuesday and the final should they progress. He is expected to be out for several weeks.

"Unfortunately, he's not going to be able to play," said Brazil team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar.