Neymar bids farewell to international career

Brazilian superstar Neymar Jr. announced his retirement from international football after his side’s defeat by Norway at the 2026 World Cup.

Norway ended Brazilian dream of another World Cup in New Jersey to advance to the quarterfinals for the first time ever.

“I tried,” Neymar said after the match on Sunday. “It started here, at MetLife Stadium, and I finished here. It is now over.”

At 34, Neymar made his debut for Brazil on August 10, 2010, in a friendly against the United States at the stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Brazil’s all-time leading scorer wasted little time making his mark, netting his first international goal before surpassing the record later held by football legend Pelé.

In the match against Norway, Neymar came off the bench and converted a late penalty to seal the victory. Overcome with emotion, he broke down in tears at the final whistle and was comforted by his teammates.

Limited by a persistent right calf injury, Neymar featured in only two of Brazil’s five matches during the tournament. He also made a 15-minute substitute appearance against Scotland in the group stage.