Brazil lost their second consecutive World Cup qualifier match as Colombia fought back to win 2-1 against the five-times champions, who are winless in the last three games and dropped to fifth place in the South American standings on Thursday.

It was a cathartic evening for Liverpool forward Luis Diaz who, just a few days after Colombia guerrillas freed his kidnapped father, scored twice within four minutes late in the second-half to give his country the shock win, after Brazil got an early lead with a Gabriel Martinelli strike.

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Brazil started well and dominated early proceedings, taking the lead in the fourth minute through a strike by Gabriel Martinelli, assisted by Vinicius Junior's fine first touch pass.

The jet-heeled Real Madrid winger was forced out due to a thigh injury halfway through the first-half after which the home side slowly took control, roared on by the crowd at the sold-out Metropolitano stadium in Barranquilla.

Luis Díaz alone created 10 attempts on target for Colombia, but was denied the equaliser by a string of fine saves from his Liverpool team mate Alisson, before defensive mistakes helped him net two headers in the 75th and 79th minutes.

Diaz burst into tears as he dedicated the win to his father who was celebrating emotionally in the stands.

Winless in the last three games, Brazil will be under heavy pressure as they are set to host long-time rivals Argentina at the iconic Maracana in Rio de Janeiro on Tuesday.

Colombia is third on nine points, one ahead Venezuela who was held to a goal less draw at home by sixth-placed Ecuador, who is one point behind Brazil that is fifth on seven points.