Brazilian football icon Neymar has announced his retirement from international football, bringing the curtain down on one of the most celebrated careers in the history of Brazilian football.
The 34-year-old ended his journey in heartbreaking fashion after Brazil suffered a 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Neymar scored Brazil’s only goal from the penalty spot in stoppage time, his 80th and final goal for his country but it was not enough to prevent an early World Cup exit.
As the final whistle blew, emotions overwhelmed the Brazilian captain. Neymar collapsed to the turf in tears before being comforted by teammates and coaching staff.
Speaking after the match, the veteran forward confirmed that his time with the national team had come to an end.
“I tried, I tried… Now it’s over.” Neymar said.
Neymar leaves the Brazilian national team as its all-time leading men’s goalscorer with 80 goals in 130 appearances over a remarkable 16-year international career.
He represented Brazil at four FIFA World Cups and won the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup, while also leading his country to Olympic gold at the 2016 Rio Games.
At club level, Neymar enjoyed tremendous success with Santos, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, winning numerous domestic league titles and the 2015 UEFA Champions League with Barcelona as part of the famous attacking trio alongside Lionel Messi and Luis SuΓ‘rez.
Although the elusive FIFA World Cup trophy slipped through his hands, Neymar’s extraordinary talent, dazzling skills and unforgettable moments have cemented his place among football’s greatest players. His emotional farewell marks the end of an era for Brazil and world football.
