Roberto Martinez’s led Belgium side on Thursday night secured passage into the semi-finals of the Russia 2018 World Cup courtesy of hard-fought 2-1 victory over five-time world champions, Brazil.

A 13th minute Fernandinho own-goal and a stunning strike from Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne after an well-orchestrated counter-attack ensured that the Belgians set up a mouth-watering semi-final fixture against France.

Brazil went close to pulling one back in the first half when Barcelona’s Philippe Coutinho forced Thibaut Courtois into a good save with a fine effort from just outside the eighteen yard box.

Brazil did pull one back 14 minutes from time when Coutinho floated in a fine cross and substitute, Renato Augusto guided in a header. But it was not enough as Neymar, Douglas Costa, Coutinho and Augusto all saw late chances go begging.

France had earlier in the afternoon booked by beating a hapless Uruguay 2-0. Goals from Raphael Varane and Antoine Griezmann ensured Le Blues continued their quest to clinch the trophy since 1998 when they hosted and won it.

The Belgians will now play France in Saint Petersburg on Tuesday while Saturday fixtures sees hosts, Russia take on Croatia while the Three Lions will slug it out with Sweden.