Brazil vs Colombia World Cup 2014: David Luiz claims it was his 'genetics' that allowed him to score incredible free-kick in quarter-final victory
Former Chelsea defender also admitted sadness over Neymar injury
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Your support makes all the difference.Brazil man of the match David Luiz joked that it was his 'genetics' that allowed him to strike the superb free-kick that was eventually the difference between his team and Colombia.
The centre back saw his unstoppable shot fly past David Ospina from about 35 yards in the 69th minute, and though James Rodriguez pulled one back for the spirited Colombians, Brazil were able to hold on and advance to the final four.
"I think it's my genetics," said the 27-year-old. "I was born with legs like these. Today was great because I hit the ball at the perfect point.
"I'm happy I can help my team like this."
However it wasn't all smiles for Luiz and Brazil, as golden boy Neymar was ruled out of the rest of the tournament after fracturing a vertebra under a heavy challenge from Juan Zuniga.
Luiz admitted the victory came with mixed feelings because a player he describes as his "brother" will be missing.
"It's a dream [to play in the next round] but we're a bit sad Neymar is out of the competition," he said. "He's a great guy, a great person and a great player. He brings good things to football. Everyone feels a bit sad because he's like a brother to me.
"Am I angry? No. I've not seen the video so I don't know how it happened.
"I never crucify players because in life you do things because you don't think, you're emotional. If [Zuniga] wanted to do that, he'll feel sad. If he just tried to stop the game, that's natural, that's football."
Zuniga has since apologised: "We wanted to score, and it was a tough game. Brazil was marking strongly. I hope it's nothing serious, let's pray to God.
"On the pitch I'm defending my shirt, my country, but I didn't expect him to fracture a vertebrae. He is a great talent for Brazil and for the world."
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