Neymar and Thiago Silva out for hosts, while Klose could be dropped for Germany…

Brazil predicted XI:

Luis Felipe Scolari is without arguably his two best players for the huge semi-final clash this evening, with Neymar picking up a nasty back injury against the Colombians in the quarter-finals, and captain Thiago Silva unavailable due to suspension.

With the defender out, Bayern Munich man Dante should come in and take his place, alongside former Chelsea defender David Luiz – who is expected to captain the team in the absence of Thiago Silva.

Brazil’s fullback positions is arguably where they are strongest – with world-class duo Marcelo and Dani Alves starting on the left and right respectively as they have done all tournament.

Due to Germany’s strength in the midfield, there’s rumours that Scolari will accommodate an extra central midfielder in Neymar’s absence rather than a direct replacement wide on the left. This means that Luiz Gustavo (returning from suspension), will anchor the side with Paulinho and Fernandinho on either side of the Wolfsburg man.

Up top, Oscar could cover for Neymar on the left rather than the no.10 position he’s been performing most of the tournament, with Hulk on the right – and struggling striker Fred up top.

All three will need to up their level of performance with the talisman out injured.