BELO HORIZONTE, Brazil (AP) — The Brazil squad entered the field carrying Neymar’s No. 10 shirt ahead of Tuesday’s semifinal against Germany.
Captain David Luiz held the jersey high above his head just before the Brazilian national anthem was played at the Mineirao Stadium. Then he and goalkeeper Julio Cesar held it together in front of their bodies as the anthem was played.
Neymar is out of the World Cup because of a fractured vertebra sustained late in Brazil’s 2-1 win over Colombia in the quarterfinals.
Just before kickoff, the crowd at the Mineirao loudly chanted “Ole, ole ole … Neymar, Neymar.”
Neymar was replaced by 21-year-old Bernard in the starting lineup.
The star striker posted a message before the match supporting his teammates, saying he wants to be with them at Sunday’s final.
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