Neymar appeared to signal the end of his international career following Brazil’s exit from the FIFA World Cup, after a 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 16. Coming off the bench, the 34-year-old forward converted a stoppage-time penalty that ultimately served only as consolation, as Erling Haaland secured Norway’s progression with a late brace.
In the aftermath of the match, Neymar suggested that his journey with the Selecao had reached its conclusion. “I tried and I tried. Now it’s over. It began here and it ends here,” he stated, visibly emotional as teammates gathered to comfort him. The loss dashed Brazil’s hopes of claiming a sixth World Cup title.
Neymar’s Final Chapter with Brazil
Returning to the national team for this tournament after a prolonged injury layoff, Neymar made his first international appearance since أكتوبر 2023 during Brazil’s group-stage victory over Scotland. The forward, who once starred for Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain and now plays for Santos, featured in two World Cup matches. His penalty against Norway may stand as the last goal of a distinguished international career, pending official confirmation of his retirement.
Leaving the international stage as Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, Neymar has etched his name in history by surpassing Pele and serving as a pivotal figure for the national team for over a decade. His contributions have made him one of the most iconic players in Brazilian football history.