Brazil captain apologises after 7-1 loss

Thiago Silva of Brazil consoles David Luiz after Germany's 7-1 victory during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Semi Final match between Brazil and Germany at Estadio Mineirao on July 8, 2014 in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Photo: Getty Images

Tearful Brazil captain David Luiz apologised to his compatriots after the hosts suffered a humiliating 7-1 World Cup semi-final defeat by Germany.

The five-times winners were thrashed by a German side who were 5-0 up in the first 29 minutes.

"They were better than us," said Luiz, who captained Brazil in the absence of Thiago Silva. "It's a very sad day but it's also a day from which to learn.

"Apologies to all the Brazilian people. I just wanted to see my people smile."

Brazil goalkeeper Julio Cesar described his team's collapse as a "blackout" and the defeat as "inexplicable".

The 34-year-old former QPR number one said: "It was beautiful up to here.

"I thank the Brazilian people, and the fans are to be congratulated for all the support they gave us.

"The players are going to apologise, but Germany were strong, and we have to acknowledge that."