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World Cup 2014: Day 27 - open thread

And then there were four ...

Laurence Griffiths

By the end of the day we'll know one of the World Cup finalists, as hosts Brazil meet Germany in the first semifinal.

Today's games

Brazil vs. Germany, Belo Horizonte, 16:00 ET/21:00 UK

For the first time since the tournament opener, we only have one match to focus on today. But it's a big 'un. A Neymar-less, Thiago Silva-less Brazil will have to cobble together a revamped starting lineup as they take on Germany in the first semifinal. The Seleção's respective injury and suspension concerns are great news for Die Mannschaft, especially as they've not been great throughout the World Cup so far.

Today's United connections

With the frankly startling omission of United's Brazilian legend Rafael da Silva, there is only one United connection in this match, and it's a pretty underwhelming one. Germany's reserve goalkeeper Ron-Robert Zieler played for the Red Devils as a youngster, but never made a first team appearance before being sold on to Hannover. I'm sticking my neck out here, but I'm willing to bet he's the only player involved tonight to have spent time at Northampton Town ...

Other stuff

Your correspondent has written a big preview for today's game, if that sort of thing sets your heart racing. There's also a lot more over at SB Nation Soccer, so be sure to check out the coverage over there throughout the day.

How to watch

If you're in the U.K., you'll find the game over on the BBC. Across the Atlantic, ESPN and Univison have the games in the USA, while CBC have them in Canada. All have streaming options available. For other countries, check LiveSoccerTV.