Neymar says Brazil career over after Norway defeat

At the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Neymar brought down the curtain on his Brazil career after a painful World Cup exit at the hands of Norway.

The 34-year-old forward came on as a substitute in the 67th minute with Brazil trailing 2-0 in their last-16 tie. He converted a penalty deep into added time, but the goal was only a consolation as the Selecao were eliminated.

“I tried, I tried. Now it’s over. I started here, I finished here,” Neymar told TV Globo, reflecting on the fact that his international debut in 2010 also came at the same venue, when he scored against the United States.

Over 16 years, Neymar became Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 80 goals in 130 appearances, second only to Cafu in caps. His international journey spanned four World Cups, 2014, 2018, 2022, and now 2026, though injuries had kept him out of the national team since 2023 before his recall for this tournament.

He featured briefly in Brazil’s group-stage win over Scotland and again against Norway, but his impact was limited. For fans, his farewell marks the end of an era defined by dazzling skill, moments of brilliance, and a career often interrupted by injury.

Brazil’s elimination leaves questions about the team’s future direction, but Neymar’s words made clear his own chapter with the national side has closed. His legacy, however, remains etched in history as one of the country’s most prolific and iconic forwards.

Source: BBC