Brazilian football icon Neymar Jr. has officially announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a remarkable 16-year career with the Brazil national team. The emotional announcement came after Brazil’s 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a result that eliminated the five-time world champions from the tournament.
A visibly emotional Neymar addressed the media after the match, saying, “I tried… Now it’s over,” confirming that he had played his final game for Brazil. The 34-year-old scored a late penalty against Norway, but it was not enough to prevent Brazil’s earliest World Cup exit since 1990. Norway striker Erling Haaland scored both goals to seal the historic victory.
Neymar retires as Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, finishing his international career with 80 goals in 130 appearances. Since making his debut in 2010, he became one of the most influential players in Brazilian football history, winning the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup and helping Brazil capture the Olympic gold medal in 2016. Although he never lifted the FIFA World Cup trophy, his creativity, flair, and technical brilliance made him one of the defining footballers of his generation.
Following the announcement, tributes poured in from football legends, teammates, and fans worldwide. Former stars Zlatan Ibrahimoviฤ and Thierry Henry praised Neymar’s extraordinary talent and lasting impact on the sport, while Brazil now begins a new chapter as it prepares for the 2030 World Cup under coach Carlo Ancelotti.
News as Reported.
