Neymar Announces International Retirement After Brazil’s FIFA World Cup 2026 Exit
Brazilian superstar Neymar has announced his retirement from international football following Brazil’s elimination from the FIFA World Cup 2026 at the hands of Norway in the Round of 16.
Five-time world champions Brazil were knocked out after suffering a 2-1 defeat to Norway in New Jersey. Norwegian striker Erling Haaland scored both goals for his side in the 79th and 90th minutes, while Neymar netted Brazil’s only goal from the penalty spot in stoppage time.
The victory secured Norway’s first-ever place in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals and brought Brazil’s campaign to an end.
An emotional Neymar was seen in tears after the final whistle before confirming that the match marked the end of his international career.
According to international media reports, Neymar told Brazilian journalists after the defeat, *”I gave everything I had. It all began here in this stadium, and it ends here. My journey is over.”*
The 34-year-old made his senior debut for Brazil on August 10, 2010, in an international friendly against the United States at the same stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, where he played his final match for the national team.
Neymar retires as Brazil’s all-time leading international goalscorer with 80 goals, surpassing the legendary Pelé by three goals. His international career spanned more than 15 years, during which he established himself as one of the greatest players in Brazilian football history.
