Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Paulinho helped Brazil reach the semi-finals of the World Cup last night.

Brazil progressed to the last four of the World Cup with a 2-1 win over suprise-package Colombia to set up a semi-final tie with Germany, who had beaten France to progress earlier in the day.

Paulinho started and played 86 minutes for Luis Felipe Scolari's side before being replaced by Internazionale midfielder Hernanes.

Goals from centre-back pairing Thiago Silva and David Luiz gave the Selecao a 2-0 lead before the impressive James Rodriguez bagged a late consolation penalty.

Spurs' Belgian trio of Jan Vertonghen, Moussa Dembele and Nacer Chadli will aim to be involved at 5pm this afternoon when Belgium take on Argentina for a place in the semi-finals.