Neymar has announced his retirement from international football following Brazil’s unexpected 2-1 defeat to Norway in the World Cup Round of 16.
The 34-year-old forward scored a stoppage-time penalty in Sunday’s loss, which marked Brazil's earliest World Cup exit since 1990. Visibly moved to tears, Neymar confirmed the end of his 14-year national team career to the Brazilian sports channel ge tv.
"I tried. Now it's over! I started here, I finished here," Neymar said. His comments referenced MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, the same venue where he made his international debut against the United States in August 2010.
Hampered by a right calf injury, Neymar made only two appearances in this tournament, largely coming off the bench. He leaves the national setup as a historic figure, recording 80 goals and 58 assists in 130 matches. However, despite a highly decorated club career, his only senior international trophy remains the 2013 Confederations Cup.
Brazil now faces a period of major transition. By the next World Cup in 2030, the five-time champions will have endured a 28-year title drought—their longest in history. Recognizing this shift, Brazilian captain Marquinhos urged fans to show patience and support the incoming generation of players as the team rebuilds.
