Brazilian superstar Neymar has announced his retirement from international duty with the Selecao following Brazil’s Round-of-16 defeat to Norway at MetLife Stadium. The 34-year-old forward made the emotional announcement shortly after the match, bringing an end to a glittering yet ultimately unfulfilled chapter with the national team.
Brazil, the five-time World Cup champions, were brutally eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup after Erling Haaland scored a brace. The Manchester City striker netted a header in the 79th minute before adding another in the 90th minute.
Neymar Jr announces retirement after Brazil's brutal World Cup elimination
Neymar Jr was the only scorer from the Brazil side as he converted a successful penalty at 90+ minutes. However, the strike couldn't save the side from elimination, forcing the former FC Barcelona player to announce his retirement from the national side.
Following the disappointing elimination, Neymar Jr was seen crying at the stadium with teammates like Vinicius Jr and Raphinha consoling him. The footballing superstar, after the game, said:
“I tried. I tried.”
Neymar added:
“It started here at MetLife Stadium and I finished here. It is now over.”
Neymar made his international debut in 2010 and went on to earn more than 100 caps for Brazil. Widely regarded as one of the most talented players of his generation, he was expected to lead Brazil to World Cup glory but fell short in multiple tournaments, including heartbreaking exits in 2014 on home soil and 2018 in Russia.
Neymar’s international career ends without the sport’s ultimate prize. MetLife Stadium holds special significance for Neymar, as it was also the venue where key moments of his journey with Brazil unfolded. His departure marks the end of an era for Brazilian football, which now turns its attention to the next generation of talents.
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