Neymar Retires From International Football After Brazil’s FIFA World Cup Exit

Brazilian forward Neymar has announced his retirement from international football after Brazil’s 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The emotional announcement came moments after the final whistle, bringing an end to his 16-year journey with the Brazilian national team.

Carlo Ancelotti’s side suffered a surprise defeat despite Neymar scoring a late stoppage-time penalty after coming off the bench. Speaking to Globo Esporte TV after the match, the 34-year-old broke down in tears and confirmed he had played his final match for Brazil.

“I tried. I tried. It started here at MetLife Stadium, and I finished here. It is now over,” Neymar said.

Neymar made two substitute appearances at the 2026 World Cup, scoring once from the penalty spot against Norway.

He retires as Brazil’s all-time leading men’s scorer with 80 goals and 58 assists in 130 matches.

Since his debut in 2010, he played in four World Cups and two Olympics, winning silver in 2012, gold in 2016, and the 2013 Confederations Cup.

He starred at the 2014 World Cup before a back injury ruled him out in the quarter-finals. He later led Brazil to Olympic gold in 2016, scoring the winning penalty at the Maracanã Stadium.

Injury setbacks again disrupted Neymar’s World Cup campaigns in 2018 and 2022.

Brazil exited at the quarter-final stage in both tournaments. In 2022, Neymar missed key matches through injury but still scored a memorable extra-time goal against Croatia, before Brazil lost in the penalty shootout.

He ends his international career without a World Cup title but leaves behind a remarkable legacy marked by records, standout performances and long service to the Selecao.

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