Neymar announced his international retirement after Brazil’s shock 2-1 Round of 16 defeat to Norway at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in New Jersey on Monday.
The 34-year-old came off the bench and converted a stoppage-time penalty, but it was only a consolation as Erling Haaland’s brace secured Norway’s win. After the final whistle, Neymar broke down in tears and told Globo Esporte TV: “I tried. I tried. It started here at MetLife Stadium, and I finished here. It is now over.” He confirmed he had played his final match for the Selecao.
Neymar finishes his Brazil career as the men’s national team’s all-time top scorer with 80 goals and adds 58 assists in 130 appearances. He debuted for the senior side in 2010 and represented Brazil at four World Cups. He also starred at the Olympics, winning silver in 2012 and captaining the side to gold in Rio in 2016 — famously converting the decisive penalty at the Maracanã.
Across a glittering club and international career, Neymar’s honours include numerous trophies at club level, though his only senior title with Brazil remains the 2013 Confederations Cup. His World Cup journey has been marked by highs and setbacks: a standout performance at the 2014 tournament cut short by injury, mixed fortunes in 2018, and an influential showing in 2022 that ended in a painful shootout loss to Croatia.
At this tournament Neymar made two substitute appearances — a second-half cameo against Scotland in the group stage and the late penalty against Norway. With his announcement, Brazil’s talented forward closes a remarkable international chapter that spanned 16 years.
(Inputs from IANS)