A masterclass performance from Germany this evening saw the three-time champions ruthlessly demolish host nation Brazil 7-1 and qualify for the final of the FIFA World Cup.

The result saw Germany become the first nation to score seven goals in a World Cup semi-final match while also inflicting the heaviest defeat suffered by Brazil in a competitive match as well as ending an unbeaten run at home that stretched more than 60 matches and 39 years for Brazil.

Despite a vociferous crowd backing Brazil, the Germans showed great focus to be unfazed by the atmosphere in Belo Horizonte and score five goals in the opening 29 minutes to leave all of Brazil and the world stunned.

A spirited start by Brazil, playing without injured Neymar and suspended Thiago Silva, was quelled when Thomas Müller turned in a low cross from Toni Kroos to open the rain of goals after 11 minutes.

Miroslav Klose made it 2-0 for Germany after 23 minutes, shooting in low after Julio Cesar kept out his first effort as the veteran striker set a new record for most World Cup goals by a player.

Klose’s goal was the first of four goals in a six minute spell, with Toni Kroos scoring a brace in the 24th and 26th minute before Sami Khedira made it 5-0 in the 29th minute as the match ended as a contest barely half an hour after it began.

Brazil began the second half with a bit more intent in search for a consolation goal at least but Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer was alert to deny efforts from Fred and Paulinho.

Chelsea striker Andre Schürrle, who came on for Klose just before the hour mark, added gloss to an already stunning result with two well taken goals in the 69th and 79th minute to make it 7-0 for the rampant Germans.

By that time, the home crowd had begun to boo the Brazil players and reacted indifferent when Oscar scored Selaçao’s consolation goal in the 90th minute.

Germany have now reached a record eighth World Cup final and await the winner of the second semi-final between Netherlands and Argentina to be played Wednesday night in Sao Paulo.