Brazil's 7-1 humiliations at the hands of the Germans was so much more than an elimination from the World Cup. It jolted fans and players alike out of a reverie and false dream. It made them realize that the team was far from being a contender and was simply an average side waiting to meet a team with the ruthlessness to put them away.
The injury to Neymar in Friday's quarterfinals clash with Colombia was a loss for a number of people. It was a loss for Brazilians looking to see their idol lead the team to the final. It was a huge loss for sponsors and advertisers hoping to continue living off Neymar's poster boy status. It was a loss for those dreaming of a Messi vs. Neymar final. But most importantly, the loss left a gaping hole in the superstar's Brazilian squad, which has been unable to cope without him.
