Neymar Ends Brazil Career After World Cup Exit Against Norway

Brazilian forward Neymar has announced the end of his international career following his country’s defeat to Norway in the 2026 World Cup round of 16. The 34-year-old made the emotional statement after Brazil were eliminated from the tournament at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

Neymar came on as a second-half substitute with Brazil already trailing 2-0 and managed to score a late penalty in stoppage time, which served only as a consolation goal. Speaking to TV Globo after the match, he said, “I tried, I tried. Now it’s over. I started here, I finished here,” reflecting on both his debut and final appearance at the same venue.

Widely regarded as one of Brazil’s greatest modern players, Neymar leaves international football as the country’s all-time top scorer with 80 goals in 130 appearances. His final tournament appearance came after a long injury layoff, having returned to the national squad for the 2026 World Cup following limited international involvement since 2023.