On this Day 10 Years Ago: Brazil's Shocking 7-1 Defeat to Germany in the 2014 World Cup Semi-Finals

July 8, 2014, will forever be etched in the annals of football history as the day Brazil suffered its most devastating defeat. On that fateful day, the Selecao faced off against Germany in the semi-finals of the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, only to be thrashed 7-1 in a match that would become infamous as the "Mineirazo."

Background

Brazil, the hosts and five-time champions, were on a quest for their sixth title, while Germany, the three-time winners, sought to end their 24-year drought. Both teams entered the tournament as favorites, with Brazil ranked third and Germany second in the FIFA World Rankings.

The Match

The two teams clashed at the Mineirão stadium in Belo Horizonte, with Brazil missing their star player Neymar due to injury and captain Thiago Silva suspended. Germany, unchanged from their quarter-final lineup, faced a Brazil team that featured several new starters.

The match began with both teams showcasing attacking prowess, but it was Germany that drew first blood in the 11th minute through Thomas Müller's strike. Miroslav Klose's goal in the 23rd minute doubled Germany's lead, surpassing Brazil's Ronaldo as the all-time leading scorer in the World Cup. The floodgates opened as Germany scored three more goals in the next six minutes, with Toni Kroos netting a brace. By the 29th minute, Germany had taken a commanding 5-0 lead, with Brazil's defense in shambles.

The second half saw Germany continue their dominance, with André Schürrle scoring twice to make it 7-0. Oscar's consolation goal in the 90th minute was little solace for Brazil as they suffered their worst defeat in World Cup history.

Aftermath

The "Mineirazo" marked several records in the tournament's history:

- Germany's victory margin was the largest in a World Cup semi-final.

- Germany became the highest-scoring team in World Cup history, surpassing Brazil.

- Miroslav Klose's 16th goal broke Ronaldo's record for most World Cup goals.

- Brazil's defeat ended their 62-match unbeaten streak at home in competitive matches.

Reactions

The loss was met with shock, disbelief, and despair from the Brazilian fans, players, and coaching staff. Luiz Felipe Scolari, Brazil's manager, accepted responsibility for the defeat, calling it the "worst loss by a Brazilian national team ever." David Luiz and Júlio César apologized to the nation, while Neymar expressed pride in being part of the team despite the humiliating defeat.