Brazil's legendary striker Neymar announced his retirement from international football after the 2-1 defeat to Norway in the 2026 World Cup. The round of 16 match ended Brazil's tournament.
In emotional remarks after the match, Neymar said, "I tried. It started here at MetLife Stadium and it ended here. It's over now." The star, who first donned the Brazil jersey on August 10, 2010, against the United States at the same stadium, holds the title of his country's all-time leading scorer.
Neymar, who came on in the final minutes of the Norway match, scored a penalty. But it could not prevent his team's elimination. The footballer burst into tears at the final whistle and was consoled by his teammates.
Neymar, who struggled with injuries throughout the tournament, was able to play in only two of Brazil's five matches. Due to a right calf injury, he lasted just 15 minutes in the group stage match against Scotland.
With Neymar's farewell, Brazil enters a transition to a new era. Team captain Marquinhos said, "We ask people to be patient with the new generation and support them from the very beginning."