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World Cup: Willian and Bernard hopeful Brazil will triumph without Neymar

Brazil's Willian is seen during a friendly match against Serbia
Image: Willian: Brazil midfielder may replace injured Neymar against Germany

Willian and Bernard are both hopeful Brazil will win the World Cup without injured talisman Neymar.

The two players in contention to replace Neymar in Brazil's World Cup semi-final line-up against Germany on Tuesday are backing the squad to go all the way.

Neymar fractured a vertebra during the 2-1 victory in the quarter-final against Colombia on Friday, and will miss the remainder of the competition.

Although his loss will be felt by the Brazil team, both Willian and Bernard are confident the squad still has enough quality to win the tournament.

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Brazil's Bernard says Germany are one of the best sides he has seen in the World Cup ahead of their semi-final clash on Tuesday.

Willian, who insists he is fit despite taking a knock in training on Saturday, said: "Neymar sets the standard for us. He is capable of deciding any game, so playing without him will be difficult.

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"We know the quality that we have. We are all very sad at losing him but we are now even stronger after what happened and we can continue to pursue our dream."

And Shakhtar Donetsk winger Bernard echoed the sentiments of the Chelsea midfielder regarding Brazil’s chances of success.

Bernard said: "We were all very sad at the situation and also because Neymar was very sad. Of course the whole group has felt his loss.

"He is a big loss not just as a player but also as a person. He is always smiling and saying positive things.

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Bryan Swanson reports from Brazil as the hosts prepare for the match without their star player Neymar.

"But we have to be calm and overcome it. We know that we have other players who will be able to replace him."

Meanwhile, Willian hopes his relationship with Chelsea team-mate Oscar, who usually plays alongside Neymar and Hulk behind main striker Fred, will be helpful if he gets the nod for the match in Belo Horizonte.

"We have played a lot of games together," Willian said.

"With Chelsea I played more to the right with Oscar through the middle, but we were free to move around.

"We are very familiar with each other's game. I know about his skills and he knows mine.

"I don't think it would be a problem because we have worked together for one year at Chelsea."

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