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Argentina 1-0 Belgium: Higuain stunner seals semi-final berth
Gonzalo Higuain's stunning strike sent Argentina into the semi-finals of the World Cup at the expense of Belgium, as Alejandro Sabella's men ran out 1-0 winners in Brasilia.
Much has been made of Argentina's reliance on mercurial captain Lionel Messi during the tournament in Brazil, but they proved they are no one-man team with an impressive display in Brasilia on Saturday.
Messi once again led by example as he equalled Diego Maradona's tally of 91 caps for his country, but it was Higuain who proved to be Argentina's match-winner with a fine early strike.
The Real Madrid striker also hit the crossbar in the second half as the South American nation produced arguably their best performance of the competition to secure a last-four spot against either the Netherlands or Costa Rica.
Argentina beat Belgium in the semi-finals in 1986 in the last meeting between the two sides, then went on to be crowned world champions, and on this evidence they are capable of repeating that feat for the first time since those finals in Mexico.
The Albiceleste came in for criticism following their disjointed display against Switzerland in the last 16, but started on the front foot and were rewarded when Higuain put them in front with a fine finish on eight minutes.
Unsurprisingly, Messi was involved, carrying the ball forward from the middle of the park and picking out Angel Di Maria, whose pass deflected invitingly for Higuain to swivel and dispatch a fierce effort into the far corner of the net.
Di Maria was then thwarted by a Kompany block after Messi had picked him out with a sublime pass and the Real Madrid winger injured himself in the process, with Enzo Perez introduced in his place.Messi was at the heart of everything and blasted a free-kick just over the crossbar after being upended on the edge of the penalty area 39 minutes in.
Argentina were brimming with confidence, but they were almost caught out four minutes before the break, when Mirallas' powerful header flew narrowly wide after he was picked out by an inviting Jan Vertonghen cross.
Higuain was a real handful for the Belgium defence and almost doubled his side's lead with a stunning solo goal nine minutes into the second half.
The striker embarked on a bursting run, in which he skipped past Kompany all too easily before unleashing a venomous right-footed shot that struck the top of the crossbar.Chances were few and far between up the other end, but Marouane Fellaini should have tested Sergio Romero when he headed off target after Vertonghen whipped in another dangerous cross.
Belgium threw men forward in an attempt to force extra time and saw a late deflected Kevin de Bruyne shot flash just wide. Messi then spurned a chance to finish Belgium off three minutes into time added on when he raced clear, but Thibaut Courtois stood tall to thwart him.
Axel Witsel sliced a late volley over the bar from the edge of the box, leaving Argentina to hold on to seal their place in the semi-finals, where they will face the winner of the quarter-final between Netherlands and Costa Rica.
Gonzalo Higuain's stunning strike sent Argentina into the semi-finals of the World Cup at the expense of Belgium, as Alejandro Sabella's men ran out 1-0 winners in Brasilia.
Much has been made of Argentina's reliance on mercurial captain Lionel Messi during the tournament in Brazil, but they proved they are no one-man team with an impressive display in Brasilia on Saturday.
Messi once again led by example as he equalled Diego Maradona's tally of 91 caps for his country, but it was Higuain who proved to be Argentina's match-winner with a fine early strike.
The Real Madrid striker also hit the crossbar in the second half as the South American nation produced arguably their best performance of the competition to secure a last-four spot against either the Netherlands or Costa Rica.
Argentina beat Belgium in the semi-finals in 1986 in the last meeting between the two sides, then went on to be crowned world champions, and on this evidence they are capable of repeating that feat for the first time since those finals in Mexico.
The Albiceleste came in for criticism following their disjointed display against Switzerland in the last 16, but started on the front foot and were rewarded when Higuain put them in front with a fine finish on eight minutes.
Unsurprisingly, Messi was involved, carrying the ball forward from the middle of the park and picking out Angel Di Maria, whose pass deflected invitingly for Higuain to swivel and dispatch a fierce effort into the far corner of the net.
Di Maria was then thwarted by a Kompany block after Messi had picked him out with a sublime pass and the Real Madrid winger injured himself in the process, with Enzo Perez introduced in his place.Messi was at the heart of everything and blasted a free-kick just over the crossbar after being upended on the edge of the penalty area 39 minutes in.
Argentina were brimming with confidence, but they were almost caught out four minutes before the break, when Mirallas' powerful header flew narrowly wide after he was picked out by an inviting Jan Vertonghen cross.
Higuain was a real handful for the Belgium defence and almost doubled his side's lead with a stunning solo goal nine minutes into the second half.
The striker embarked on a bursting run, in which he skipped past Kompany all too easily before unleashing a venomous right-footed shot that struck the top of the crossbar.Chances were few and far between up the other end, but Marouane Fellaini should have tested Sergio Romero when he headed off target after Vertonghen whipped in another dangerous cross.
Belgium threw men forward in an attempt to force extra time and saw a late deflected Kevin de Bruyne shot flash just wide. Messi then spurned a chance to finish Belgium off three minutes into time added on when he raced clear, but Thibaut Courtois stood tall to thwart him.
Axel Witsel sliced a late volley over the bar from the edge of the box, leaving Argentina to hold on to seal their place in the semi-finals, where they will face the winner of the quarter-final between Netherlands and Costa Rica.
Real Madrid icon Di Stefano suffers cardiac arrest
Former Real Madrid striker Alfredo di Stefano is in a serious condition in hospital after suffering a suspected heart attack.
The club's honorary president, who turned 88 this week, was reportedly taken ill after leaving a restaurant in Calle Juan Ramon Jimenez in the Spanish capital, and was rushed to the Gregorio Maranon hospital after being treated by paramedics.
It is understood the former striker suffered cardiac arrest and is now in intensive care.
A source from Madrid emergency services unit Samur told EFE: "A cardiac arrest was attended by Samur staff and they immediately transferred the patient to the Gregorio Maranon hospital."
Argentina-born Di Stefano won eight Primera Liga titles and five European Cups in a sensational decade at Santiago Bernabeu, in which time he scored over 300 goals in 396 appearances.
The former Spain international, who was made honorary president of the Spanish giants in 2000, suffered a minor heart attack in December 2005.
Fifa to investigate Neymar incident
Fifa has confirmed it will analyse the incident in Friday's World Cup quarter-final which saw Neymar suffer a broken vertebra.
Colombia defender Juan Camilo Zuniga challenged the Brazil star from behind in the closing stages of the game, causing the back injury which has now ruled the Barcelona forward out of the tournament.
Zuniga insisted after the match he did not mean to hurt Neymar with the challenge, for which he escaped a yellow or red card, but Fifa has since revealed that their disciplinary committee will examine the incident to see if further action should be taken.
"The disciplinary committee is analysing the matter. The spirit of fair play is very important and we want to avoid difficult things on the field of play," said Fifa's head of media Delia Fischer at a briefing on Saturday.
Despite Zuniga's protestations that his challenge was honest, former Brazil striker Ronaldo claims the Colombian has a case to answer.
"The challenge was a very violent one – I believe there was an intention by the Colombian player to cause some harm," he told reporters in Brazil.
"I don't think it was normal football play, I don't know whether he had planned this beforehand but I do believe it was very aggressive, very violent."
Goals from David Luiz and Thiago Silva sealed a 2-1 win for Brazil on the night that secured their semi-final spot, where they will face Germany.
Fifa has confirmed it will analyse the incident in Friday's World Cup quarter-final which saw Neymar suffer a broken vertebra.
Colombia defender Juan Camilo Zuniga challenged the Brazil star from behind in the closing stages of the game, causing the back injury which has now ruled the Barcelona forward out of the tournament.
Zuniga insisted after the match he did not mean to hurt Neymar with the challenge, for which he escaped a yellow or red card, but Fifa has since revealed that their disciplinary committee will examine the incident to see if further action should be taken.
"The disciplinary committee is analysing the matter. The spirit of fair play is very important and we want to avoid difficult things on the field of play," said Fifa's head of media Delia Fischer at a briefing on Saturday.
Despite Zuniga's protestations that his challenge was honest, former Brazil striker Ronaldo claims the Colombian has a case to answer.
"The challenge was a very violent one – I believe there was an intention by the Colombian player to cause some harm," he told reporters in Brazil.
"I don't think it was normal football play, I don't know whether he had planned this beforehand but I do believe it was very aggressive, very violent."
Goals from David Luiz and Thiago Silva sealed a 2-1 win for Brazil on the night that secured their semi-final spot, where they will face Germany.
Someone call the referee, he didn't show up - Falcao
Monaco striker Radamel Falcao quipped that someone ought to call referee Carlos Velasco Carballo before his next game after he "didn't show up" for Colombia's 2-1 World Cup quarter-final defeat to Brazil.
Referee Carlos Velasco Carballo appeared reluctant to show yellow cards for much of the match, despite a huge number of fouls, with Colombia left particulary frustrated that a number of heavy challenges on James Rodriguez went unpunished.
Carballo also opted against showing Julio Cesar a red card when he brought down Carlos Bacca in front of goal for the penalty which James scored in the closing minutes - another decision which prompted a furious response in the Colombian press.
And Falcao, who missed the tournament in Brazil after failing to recover from a knee injury, was left deeply unimpressed by the officiating in Fortaleza.
"For the next game, remember to call the referee, because he did not show up today," he wrote on his official Twitter page.
Falcao also wished Neymar a quick recovery following the back injury which has ruled him out of the rest of the tournament and praised his compatriots for their efforts over the past month.
He said to Neymar: "Best wishes for a speedy recovery", before adding to his team-mates: "Thank you for what you have done, the best is yet to come."
Monaco striker Radamel Falcao quipped that someone ought to call referee Carlos Velasco Carballo before his next game after he "didn't show up" for Colombia's 2-1 World Cup quarter-final defeat to Brazil.
Referee Carlos Velasco Carballo appeared reluctant to show yellow cards for much of the match, despite a huge number of fouls, with Colombia left particulary frustrated that a number of heavy challenges on James Rodriguez went unpunished.
Carballo also opted against showing Julio Cesar a red card when he brought down Carlos Bacca in front of goal for the penalty which James scored in the closing minutes - another decision which prompted a furious response in the Colombian press.
And Falcao, who missed the tournament in Brazil after failing to recover from a knee injury, was left deeply unimpressed by the officiating in Fortaleza.
"For the next game, remember to call the referee, because he did not show up today," he wrote on his official Twitter page.
Falcao also wished Neymar a quick recovery following the back injury which has ruled him out of the rest of the tournament and praised his compatriots for their efforts over the past month.
He said to Neymar: "Best wishes for a speedy recovery", before adding to his team-mates: "Thank you for what you have done, the best is yet to come."
Pele: Neymar injury 'hurts our hearts'
Pele admits that Brazilian hearts are hurting following Neymar's injury against Colombia - but remains hopeful they can go on to win the World Cup.
The Barcelona star suffered a broken vertebra following a challenge from Juan Camilo Zuniga in the closing minutes of the Selecao's 2-1 quarter-final win over Colombia on Friday.
The incident has ruled Neymar out of the rest of the tournament, but Pele - who saw his 1962 World Cup campaign curtailed through injury, only to see Brazil go on to win the tournament - believes Luiz Felipe Scolari's side are still fully capable of lifting the trophy.
Pele admits that Brazilian hearts are hurting following Neymar's injury against Colombia - but remains hopeful they can go on to win the World Cup.
The Barcelona star suffered a broken vertebra following a challenge from Juan Camilo Zuniga in the closing minutes of the Selecao's 2-1 quarter-final win over Colombia on Friday.
The incident has ruled Neymar out of the rest of the tournament, but Pele - who saw his 1962 World Cup campaign curtailed through injury, only to see Brazil go on to win the tournament - believes Luiz Felipe Scolari's side are still fully capable of lifting the trophy.
Without Neymar, is there no hope for Brazil?
It is now confirmed: Neymar is out of this World Cup.
Everyone has the right to mourn – but I’m impressed with the commentators talking on TV. They questioned the morale of the players, as if they were like some mourners. The absence of one player (who had veered from flop to star of the Selecao at a whim) means Brazil now need a contingency that will not have been covered by a Plan B.
Against Colombia, again we started better, but this time we managed to extend our dominance for a little more than just 20 minutes, lasting until half time. But again we lost control of the match and returned to panicking off the ball.
Our centre-backs have played okay in all of the previous games, but were not at their best. However, it isn’t necessary to praise the performance of Thiago Silva and David Luiz. They scored the goals!
Brazil were like minnows playing at home and had no other tactic in the second half other than to pray that they could win the ball in midfield and set someone away on a counterattack. There was very little evidence for those who proclaim Brazil as favourites to think they will add to their five world titles.
Colombia played very well in the second half, especially after the second goal – showing a powerful reaction that it is difficult to imagine Brazil imitating. Last night, Brazil seemed to run low on energy. Fred had difficulty lifting his arms to ask for encouragement of the crowd, and you find yourself wondering where did he do as much exercise during the game!
In the end, you feel sorry for the Colombians, eliminated when they deserved to go through just as much as Brazil. But the World Cup, like life, isn’t always fair, as Neymar now knows.
It is now confirmed: Neymar is out of this World Cup.
Everyone has the right to mourn – but I’m impressed with the commentators talking on TV. They questioned the morale of the players, as if they were like some mourners. The absence of one player (who had veered from flop to star of the Selecao at a whim) means Brazil now need a contingency that will not have been covered by a Plan B.
Against Colombia, again we started better, but this time we managed to extend our dominance for a little more than just 20 minutes, lasting until half time. But again we lost control of the match and returned to panicking off the ball.
Our centre-backs have played okay in all of the previous games, but were not at their best. However, it isn’t necessary to praise the performance of Thiago Silva and David Luiz. They scored the goals!
Brazil were like minnows playing at home and had no other tactic in the second half other than to pray that they could win the ball in midfield and set someone away on a counterattack. There was very little evidence for those who proclaim Brazil as favourites to think they will add to their five world titles.
Colombia played very well in the second half, especially after the second goal – showing a powerful reaction that it is difficult to imagine Brazil imitating. Last night, Brazil seemed to run low on energy. Fred had difficulty lifting his arms to ask for encouragement of the crowd, and you find yourself wondering where did he do as much exercise during the game!
In the end, you feel sorry for the Colombians, eliminated when they deserved to go through just as much as Brazil. But the World Cup, like life, isn’t always fair, as Neymar now knows.
Borussia Monchengladbach seal Thorgan Hazard loan deal
Chelsea's Thorgan Hazard will spend the 2014-15 season on loan at Bundesliga outfit Borussia Monchengladbach, it was confirmed on Saturday.
The 21-year-old, who is the younger brother of Blues star Eden Hazard, made the switch to Stamford Bridge from Ligue 1 side Lens in 2012.
Chelsea immediately opted to loan Thorgan to Zulte Waregem in his native Belgium, where he has spent the past two seasons.
Gladbach claimed to have reached an agreement to loan the player on Thursday, and the temporary deal has now been confirmed.
Max Eberl, Gladbach's sporting director, told the club's official website: "Thorgan is a promising talent.
"He can be used in various offensive positions and we are pleased that he has decided to take the next step in his career at Borussia Monchengladbach."
Hazard's two seasons with Waregem proved fruitful, and last season he won the Golden Shoe for the best player in Belgium's Pro League.
He was rewarded with a first international cap last May, and was on Belgium's standby list for the World Cup.
Chelsea's Thorgan Hazard will spend the 2014-15 season on loan at Bundesliga outfit Borussia Monchengladbach, it was confirmed on Saturday.
The 21-year-old, who is the younger brother of Blues star Eden Hazard, made the switch to Stamford Bridge from Ligue 1 side Lens in 2012.
Chelsea immediately opted to loan Thorgan to Zulte Waregem in his native Belgium, where he has spent the past two seasons.
Gladbach claimed to have reached an agreement to loan the player on Thursday, and the temporary deal has now been confirmed.
Max Eberl, Gladbach's sporting director, told the club's official website: "Thorgan is a promising talent.
"He can be used in various offensive positions and we are pleased that he has decided to take the next step in his career at Borussia Monchengladbach."
Hazard's two seasons with Waregem proved fruitful, and last season he won the Golden Shoe for the best player in Belgium's Pro League.
He was rewarded with a first international cap last May, and was on Belgium's standby list for the World Cup.
Zuniga: I didn't mean to hurt Neymar
Juan Camilo Zuniga insists he did not mean to hurt Neymar after his challenge ended the Brazil star's World Cup.
In the closing stages of Friday's quarter-final clash, the Napoli defender crashed into the back of Neymar on the edge of the Brazil area, forcing the Barcelona ace to be stretchered off.
Hospital tests later confirmed the 22-year-old suffered a broken vertebra and will therefore be unable to compete in the semi-final against Germany, but Zuniga maintains his challenge was not an aggressive one.
"I didn't mean to hurt him. On the pitch, you have to make tough challenges, but it was not my intention to injure him," Zuniga said after the match.
"Brazil were going strong and so were we. It was a normal challenge, I just wanted to defend my country.
"I hope it's nothing too serious, he's a talent for Brazil and the world of football."
On Saturday, the Napoli defender posted a message of apology to Neymar on Instagram. "I deeply lament the sad injury suffered by Neymar in the match between Brazil and Colombia," it read. "I feel bad about this situation, which came about from a normal action which had no bad intention, no nastiness or imprudence on my part."
And he added: "I want to send you a special greeting, Neymar. I consider you one of the best players in the world. I hope you recover quickly and that you're back soon to excite us with your football - a sport full of virtues and qualities that I have put into practice during my 12 years as a professional."
Zuniga, who has received death threats from some radical fans on social media, also addressed Brazilian supporters, saying: "To the Brazilian fans who have seen one of their players, an exemplary human being, ruled out of the World Cup, I want to send a special message and also say thank you for all the support you gave Colombia in each of their games [at this World Cup]."
Juan Camilo Zuniga insists he did not mean to hurt Neymar after his challenge ended the Brazil star's World Cup.
In the closing stages of Friday's quarter-final clash, the Napoli defender crashed into the back of Neymar on the edge of the Brazil area, forcing the Barcelona ace to be stretchered off.
Hospital tests later confirmed the 22-year-old suffered a broken vertebra and will therefore be unable to compete in the semi-final against Germany, but Zuniga maintains his challenge was not an aggressive one.
"I didn't mean to hurt him. On the pitch, you have to make tough challenges, but it was not my intention to injure him," Zuniga said after the match.
"Brazil were going strong and so were we. It was a normal challenge, I just wanted to defend my country.
"I hope it's nothing too serious, he's a talent for Brazil and the world of football."
On Saturday, the Napoli defender posted a message of apology to Neymar on Instagram. "I deeply lament the sad injury suffered by Neymar in the match between Brazil and Colombia," it read. "I feel bad about this situation, which came about from a normal action which had no bad intention, no nastiness or imprudence on my part."
And he added: "I want to send you a special greeting, Neymar. I consider you one of the best players in the world. I hope you recover quickly and that you're back soon to excite us with your football - a sport full of virtues and qualities that I have put into practice during my 12 years as a professional."
Zuniga, who has received death threats from some radical fans on social media, also addressed Brazilian supporters, saying: "To the Brazilian fans who have seen one of their players, an exemplary human being, ruled out of the World Cup, I want to send a special message and also say thank you for all the support you gave Colombia in each of their games [at this World Cup]."
Ronaldo backs James to Madrid move
James Rodriguez and Real Madrid would be "a great combination" according to Brazil icon Ronaldo.
The Monaco playmaker has been in sensational form at the World Cup, and scored his sixth goal of the tournament as Colombia were knocked out of the quarter-finals 2-1 by Brazil on Friday.
The 22-year-old has been linked with a potential switch to Spain as a result of his performances and confessed he would prefer a move to Santiago Bernabeu, although Monaco have made it clear they will not entertain offers for the player.
Ronaldo, however, believes James would be an ideal signing for Carlo Ancelotti's side should they be able to persuade the Ligue 1 club to part with one of their prized assets.
"I've heard nothing about Real Madrid's interest in James. Let's see what happens. All the players are focused on the World Cup, maybe something will be announced after the Brazil game," the former Madrid star told Marca.
"I believe he would be a great signing for Real Madrid, which for me is the greatest team in the world. It would be a great combination."
James Rodriguez and Real Madrid would be "a great combination" according to Brazil icon Ronaldo.
The Monaco playmaker has been in sensational form at the World Cup, and scored his sixth goal of the tournament as Colombia were knocked out of the quarter-finals 2-1 by Brazil on Friday.
The 22-year-old has been linked with a potential switch to Spain as a result of his performances and confessed he would prefer a move to Santiago Bernabeu, although Monaco have made it clear they will not entertain offers for the player.
Ronaldo, however, believes James would be an ideal signing for Carlo Ancelotti's side should they be able to persuade the Ligue 1 club to part with one of their prized assets.
"I've heard nothing about Real Madrid's interest in James. Let's see what happens. All the players are focused on the World Cup, maybe something will be announced after the Brazil game," the former Madrid star told Marca.
"I believe he would be a great signing for Real Madrid, which for me is the greatest team in the world. It would be a great combination."
Mondragon confirms retirement from football
Faryd Mondragon has confirmed he will retire from football following Colombia's World Cup exit at the hands of Brazil.
The former Galatasaray goalkeeper, now 43, became the oldest player to take part in a World Cup finals match when he replaced David Ospina in the group-stage win over Japan.
He had earlier announced this summer's tournament in Brazil would be his last as a player and the Deportivo Cali icon has now confirmed his career has reached its conclusion.
"This is my last stadium as a professional player," he said on his official Instagram page. "I'm proud to be part of this wonderful group."
Mondragon, who began his career with the Colombian outfit, enjoyed spells with Independiente and Santa Fe before moving to Europe to join Real Sociedad in 1999.
His most successful period came with Turkish giants Galatasaray, where he won two Super Lig titles and a domestic cup between 2001 and 2007, after which he joined Koln.
Mondragon, who earned a total of 56 caps for Colombia over a remarkable 23-year period, spent a season with Philadelphia Union in 2011 before returning to Deportivo Cali for two years prior to his retirement.
Faryd Mondragon has confirmed he will retire from football following Colombia's World Cup exit at the hands of Brazil.
The former Galatasaray goalkeeper, now 43, became the oldest player to take part in a World Cup finals match when he replaced David Ospina in the group-stage win over Japan.
He had earlier announced this summer's tournament in Brazil would be his last as a player and the Deportivo Cali icon has now confirmed his career has reached its conclusion.
"This is my last stadium as a professional player," he said on his official Instagram page. "I'm proud to be part of this wonderful group."
Mondragon, who began his career with the Colombian outfit, enjoyed spells with Independiente and Santa Fe before moving to Europe to join Real Sociedad in 1999.
His most successful period came with Turkish giants Galatasaray, where he won two Super Lig titles and a domestic cup between 2001 and 2007, after which he joined Koln.
Mondragon, who earned a total of 56 caps for Colombia over a remarkable 23-year period, spent a season with Philadelphia Union in 2011 before returning to Deportivo Cali for two years prior to his retirement.
'Complete' Suarez would be welcome at Barcelona, says Bartra
Barcelona defender Marc Bartra has described Luis Suarez as "a very complete" forward and says he would be welcome at Camp Nou.
The Spanish giants are in advanced talks over a deal for the Uruguay and Liverpol star as they prepare to launch an €88 million offer for the player.
Suarez will miss the start of the 2014-15 season after receiving a four-month ban from all football activity for his bite on Giorgio Chiellini during the World Cup, but Bartra is adamant the 27-year-old would be a great signing for the club.
"For me he's a great player and, if he comes, he would be welcome. He is a very complete striker," he told reporters at a sponsor event.
Suarez would become Barca's fourth signing of the summer following the arrivals of Ivan Rakitic and goalkeepers Claudio Bravo and Marc-Andre ter Stegen - three players Bartra believes will be key additions.
"Bravo knows La Liga well and that's good. Ter Stegen is a great keeper from what I've seen, he saves a lot and is good with his feet. Rakitic is very complete and I am sure he will adapt quickly to the team."
Barcelona are also believed to be in the market for a central defender following the retirement of Carles Puyol, with Paris Saint-Germain youngster Marquinhos among those linked with a move, but Bartra is not concerned by the prospect of increased competition for places.
"With the loss of Puyi, it's normal that someone comes in his place. I'm calm, I'm eager to start, and whoever comes in, I'll try to help him. Whoever he is, I'm eager to win my place," he said.
Finally, Bartra backed team-mate Neymar to come back even stronger after suffering a back injury which has ruled him out of the rest of the World Cup.
"It's a shame because he could have given more at the Wold Cup. Knowing him, I'm sure he is annoyed, because they are losing the best player at the World Cup," he added.
"I hope he recovers as soon as possible and can start with us. I'm sure this will make him stronger."
Barcelona defender Marc Bartra has described Luis Suarez as "a very complete" forward and says he would be welcome at Camp Nou.
The Spanish giants are in advanced talks over a deal for the Uruguay and Liverpol star as they prepare to launch an €88 million offer for the player.
Suarez will miss the start of the 2014-15 season after receiving a four-month ban from all football activity for his bite on Giorgio Chiellini during the World Cup, but Bartra is adamant the 27-year-old would be a great signing for the club.
"For me he's a great player and, if he comes, he would be welcome. He is a very complete striker," he told reporters at a sponsor event.
Suarez would become Barca's fourth signing of the summer following the arrivals of Ivan Rakitic and goalkeepers Claudio Bravo and Marc-Andre ter Stegen - three players Bartra believes will be key additions.
"Bravo knows La Liga well and that's good. Ter Stegen is a great keeper from what I've seen, he saves a lot and is good with his feet. Rakitic is very complete and I am sure he will adapt quickly to the team."
Barcelona are also believed to be in the market for a central defender following the retirement of Carles Puyol, with Paris Saint-Germain youngster Marquinhos among those linked with a move, but Bartra is not concerned by the prospect of increased competition for places.
"With the loss of Puyi, it's normal that someone comes in his place. I'm calm, I'm eager to start, and whoever comes in, I'll try to help him. Whoever he is, I'm eager to win my place," he said.
Finally, Bartra backed team-mate Neymar to come back even stronger after suffering a back injury which has ruled him out of the rest of the World Cup.
"It's a shame because he could have given more at the Wold Cup. Knowing him, I'm sure he is annoyed, because they are losing the best player at the World Cup," he added.
"I hope he recovers as soon as possible and can start with us. I'm sure this will make him stronger."
Messi,Neymar & Suarez
Sabella: Argentina's best showing yet
Argentina coach Alejandro Sabella has described his side's 1-0 defeat of Belgium as their best display of the World Cup so far.
The Albiceleste edged into the last four courtesy of Gonzalo Higuain's first-half strike - a deserved reward for a fast start from the South Americans.
Belgium rarely looked like getting back into the contest until the latter stages when the Red Devils resorted to long balls into the Argentina area.
It was a confident performance from Argentina, which left Sabella purring. He said: "This was our best game, we were balanced and we played well.
"It is a great joy for the squad and I am happy for the people, my family and everyone that has supported me."
The only blemish on an otherwise good afternoon for Sabella was the injury suffered by Angel Di Maria which saw the Real Madrid star limp off after 33 minutes.
Sabella added: "Di Maria's injury could be costly for us. Let's see how he is."
Argentina coach Alejandro Sabella has described his side's 1-0 defeat of Belgium as their best display of the World Cup so far.
The Albiceleste edged into the last four courtesy of Gonzalo Higuain's first-half strike - a deserved reward for a fast start from the South Americans.
Belgium rarely looked like getting back into the contest until the latter stages when the Red Devils resorted to long balls into the Argentina area.
It was a confident performance from Argentina, which left Sabella purring. He said: "This was our best game, we were balanced and we played well.
"It is a great joy for the squad and I am happy for the people, my family and everyone that has supported me."
The only blemish on an otherwise good afternoon for Sabella was the injury suffered by Angel Di Maria which saw the Real Madrid star limp off after 33 minutes.
Sabella added: "Di Maria's injury could be costly for us. Let's see how he is."
Lampard close to announcing new club
Frank Lampard has revealed he is on the verge of announcing where he will play next season.
Lampard, who said in June that he would be leaving Chelsea after a 13-year stay, has been linked with a move to new MLS franchise New York City, following in the footsteps of Spanish forward David Villa.
A move to the USA could be preceded - as with Villa - by a loan spell at Australian outfit Melbourne City, with Mark Schwarzer revealing the former West Ham trainee has asked him about living in the Victorian city.
But despite being unable to confirm his plans for the time being, Lampard stressed he would make an announcement soon.
"At the moment I have got a few options," he told Sky Sports News. "There is no exclusive but I will be making a decision very shortly."
Lampard was part of the England squad that failed to win a match at the World Cup and concedes he may have played his last match at international level.
"Of course I would like to play for England again," he added.
"But maybe you cannot play for ever so again I've switched off for the moment. I have not made that decision either.
"I'm very aware that my England career cannot go on for ever and I have enjoyed every minute so we will see.
"It will be a difficult decision but at the end of the day I would not ever have dreamed of having such an England career so I can only be happy with whatever decision I make."
Frank Lampard has revealed he is on the verge of announcing where he will play next season.
Lampard, who said in June that he would be leaving Chelsea after a 13-year stay, has been linked with a move to new MLS franchise New York City, following in the footsteps of Spanish forward David Villa.
A move to the USA could be preceded - as with Villa - by a loan spell at Australian outfit Melbourne City, with Mark Schwarzer revealing the former West Ham trainee has asked him about living in the Victorian city.
But despite being unable to confirm his plans for the time being, Lampard stressed he would make an announcement soon.
"At the moment I have got a few options," he told Sky Sports News. "There is no exclusive but I will be making a decision very shortly."
Lampard was part of the England squad that failed to win a match at the World Cup and concedes he may have played his last match at international level.
"Of course I would like to play for England again," he added.
"But maybe you cannot play for ever so again I've switched off for the moment. I have not made that decision either.
"I'm very aware that my England career cannot go on for ever and I have enjoyed every minute so we will see.
"It will be a difficult decision but at the end of the day I would not ever have dreamed of having such an England career so I can only be happy with whatever decision I make."
Netherlands 0-0 Costa Rica AET (Pens 4-3): Dutch through to semis after Krul gamble pays off
Tim Krul was the unlikely hero as Netherlands secured a 4-3 shoot-out win over Costa Rica to book a World Cup semi-final place.
Over 120 goalless minutes in Salvador, Louis van Gaal's team struck the post or crossbar on three occasions and the Manchester United-bound manager unleashed an unexpected secret weapon from the bench during the dying seconds of extra time.
Krul, who has an unremarkable penalty record at Newcastle United, came on for Jasper Cillessen to save Costa Rica's second and last penalties from Celso Borges and Michael Umana. Robin van Persie, Arjen Robben, Wesley Sneijder and Dirk Kuyt were the Netherlands' flawless foursome.
It ends a remarkable journey for tournament outsiders Costa Rica, who won a group featuring Uruguay, Italy and England before beating Greece on spot-kicks.
But this proved a step too far as the Dutch, who had lost four of their previous five shootouts in major tournaments, banished their demons from 12 yards to book a semi-final appointment with Argentina Costa Rica combined the organisation and attacking verve that has been their hallmark in Brazil, but ambition going forward left them exposed to Netherlands' incision on the break and indebted to inspirational goalkeeper Keylor Navas.
Jorge Luis Pinto's team were in confident mood as the game entered its final stages before Sneijder rattled the post from a free-kick to herald a late onslaught.
But Van Persie proved uncharacteristically wasteful in spurning three goalscoring opportunities, including one close-range sitter, as Netherlands failed in their bid to avoid an extra half hour.Sneijder crashed a shot into the bar, while Costa Rica substitute Michael Urena threatened to snatch the headlines that would ultimately be Krul's.
Memphis Depay, starting after twice netting from the bench in this tournament, gave Van Persie the game's first clear opening in the 21st minute but Navas closed the angle well and stopped Sneijder's follow-up.
Navas saved well in the 29th minute as Van Persie and Depay reversed their earlier roles, while a frantic Dutch clearance as Johnny Acosta looked to turn home Celso Borges' set-piece knockdown underlined a developing end-to-end feel.
Sneijder took a more direct approach from a 38th-minute free-kick, conceded by Junior Diaz, but Navas - quelling fears surrounding a shoulder injury that dogged him earlier in the week - clawed superbly around the post.
Robben's admission that he dived during the Netherlands' win over Mexico in the previous round dominated the pre-match build-up and Umana followed Diaz into the book after he too fouled the forward, who cleverly set up Sneijder to blaze over from the resulting 53rd-minute set play.
It was Joel Campbell and not his illustrious opponent who went to ground easily in the 60th minute as a promising Diaz raid down the left came to nothing, before Giancarlo Gonzalez headed over from another fine Christian Bolanos delivery to increase Dutch anxiety.
There was contact from Gonzalez and another booking as Robben went to ground theatrically in the 81st minute. Sneijder watched his free-kick from the left-hand corner of the area cannon back off the post.Van Persie was then denied by Navas and he somehow failed to connect with Sneijder's delicious 88th-minute cross.
The Manchester United man was not done there - after Navas punched his free-kick away in stoppage-time, Costa Rica midfielder Yeltsin Tejeda cleared Van Persie's shot off the goal line via the crossbar; Daley Blind's low centre having caused complete chaos.The start of extra time brought little let-up and Navas produced further acrobatics to keep out Ron Vlaar's header, but a flap at the resulting corner showed the Levante man was not infallible.
Vlaar was unimpressed as Urena sought a penalty at his expense, although Pinto's men were restricted to a largely defensive brief as the additional period progressed.Urena crafted his team's best chance, drawing a nerveless 117th-minute save from Cillessen at the end of a jinking run and penalties arrived after Sneijder rattled the crossbar from distance with Navas rooted to the spot.
And when the heat was on from 12 yards shortly afterwards, Krul was anything but.
Tim Krul was the unlikely hero as Netherlands secured a 4-3 shoot-out win over Costa Rica to book a World Cup semi-final place.
Over 120 goalless minutes in Salvador, Louis van Gaal's team struck the post or crossbar on three occasions and the Manchester United-bound manager unleashed an unexpected secret weapon from the bench during the dying seconds of extra time.
Krul, who has an unremarkable penalty record at Newcastle United, came on for Jasper Cillessen to save Costa Rica's second and last penalties from Celso Borges and Michael Umana. Robin van Persie, Arjen Robben, Wesley Sneijder and Dirk Kuyt were the Netherlands' flawless foursome.
It ends a remarkable journey for tournament outsiders Costa Rica, who won a group featuring Uruguay, Italy and England before beating Greece on spot-kicks.
But this proved a step too far as the Dutch, who had lost four of their previous five shootouts in major tournaments, banished their demons from 12 yards to book a semi-final appointment with Argentina Costa Rica combined the organisation and attacking verve that has been their hallmark in Brazil, but ambition going forward left them exposed to Netherlands' incision on the break and indebted to inspirational goalkeeper Keylor Navas.
Jorge Luis Pinto's team were in confident mood as the game entered its final stages before Sneijder rattled the post from a free-kick to herald a late onslaught.
But Van Persie proved uncharacteristically wasteful in spurning three goalscoring opportunities, including one close-range sitter, as Netherlands failed in their bid to avoid an extra half hour.Sneijder crashed a shot into the bar, while Costa Rica substitute Michael Urena threatened to snatch the headlines that would ultimately be Krul's.
Memphis Depay, starting after twice netting from the bench in this tournament, gave Van Persie the game's first clear opening in the 21st minute but Navas closed the angle well and stopped Sneijder's follow-up.
Navas saved well in the 29th minute as Van Persie and Depay reversed their earlier roles, while a frantic Dutch clearance as Johnny Acosta looked to turn home Celso Borges' set-piece knockdown underlined a developing end-to-end feel.
Sneijder took a more direct approach from a 38th-minute free-kick, conceded by Junior Diaz, but Navas - quelling fears surrounding a shoulder injury that dogged him earlier in the week - clawed superbly around the post.
Robben's admission that he dived during the Netherlands' win over Mexico in the previous round dominated the pre-match build-up and Umana followed Diaz into the book after he too fouled the forward, who cleverly set up Sneijder to blaze over from the resulting 53rd-minute set play.
It was Joel Campbell and not his illustrious opponent who went to ground easily in the 60th minute as a promising Diaz raid down the left came to nothing, before Giancarlo Gonzalez headed over from another fine Christian Bolanos delivery to increase Dutch anxiety.
There was contact from Gonzalez and another booking as Robben went to ground theatrically in the 81st minute. Sneijder watched his free-kick from the left-hand corner of the area cannon back off the post.Van Persie was then denied by Navas and he somehow failed to connect with Sneijder's delicious 88th-minute cross.
The Manchester United man was not done there - after Navas punched his free-kick away in stoppage-time, Costa Rica midfielder Yeltsin Tejeda cleared Van Persie's shot off the goal line via the crossbar; Daley Blind's low centre having caused complete chaos.The start of extra time brought little let-up and Navas produced further acrobatics to keep out Ron Vlaar's header, but a flap at the resulting corner showed the Levante man was not infallible.
Vlaar was unimpressed as Urena sought a penalty at his expense, although Pinto's men were restricted to a largely defensive brief as the additional period progressed.Urena crafted his team's best chance, drawing a nerveless 117th-minute save from Cillessen at the end of a jinking run and penalties arrived after Sneijder rattled the crossbar from distance with Navas rooted to the spot.
And when the heat was on from 12 yards shortly afterwards, Krul was anything but.
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