Brazil’s quest for a sixth FIFA World Cup title ended in dramatic fashion on Sunday, and so did Neymar Jr’s international career.
Moments after Brazil were knocked out 2-1 by Norway in the Round of 16 at MetLife Stadium, the veteran forward confirmed he was stepping away from international football. The defeat ended Brazil’s campaign, while Neymar signed off as the country’s all-time leading scorer.
Neymar confirms international retirement
Reflecting on his final appearance for Brazil, Neymar said:
“I tried, I tried. Now it’s over. I started here; I finished here.”
His farewell came after Erling Haaland struck twice late in the match to send Norway into the quarter-finals.
Neymar pulled one goal back from the penalty spot in the 10th minute of stoppage time after Leo Ostigard was penalised for fouling Casemiro. It was his first goal of the tournament.
The strike also took his Brazil record to 80 international goals, along with 59 assists in 130 appearances.
Brazil’s World Cup ends in disappointment
Norway absorbed sustained Brazilian pressure before Haaland broke the deadlock in the 79th minute, heading home Andreas Schjelderup’s cross.
The Manchester City striker added another soon after to put Norway firmly in control.
Although Neymar converted a late penalty, Brazil could not find an equaliser.
Career closes with major honours
Neymar’s international career included victory in the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup and an Olympic gold medal at the Rio 2016 Games.
His place in Brazil’s World Cup squad had remained uncertain until the final stages because of fitness concerns. Head coach Carlo Ancelotti eventually included the experienced forward in the 26-man squad.
Brazil’s defeat marked its seventh successive World Cup knockout loss to European opposition. It was also the team’s earliest exit from the tournament since 1990.