Neymar Retires from Brazil National Team After World Cup Exit

"I tried, I tried. Now it's over. I started here, and ended here." — Neymar

Brazil forward Neymar has announced his retirement from the Brazilian national team following the team's 2-1 loss to Norway in the round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at MetLife Stadium. The 34-year-old concludes his international career as the all-time leading goalscorer for the Brazilian men's national team.

Neymar's Career and Retirement

Neymar made his senior debut for Brazil against Norway at MetLife Stadium in 2010. He retires with 80 goals in 130 appearances for the national team. He participated in four World Cups and two Olympic tournaments, winning a silver medal in 2012 and a gold medal in 2016.

In the 2026 World Cup, Neymar made two appearances as a substitute and scored one goal, a penalty kick against Norway. In a post-match interview with Globo, he stated: "I tried, I tried. Now it's over. I started here, and ended here."

Brazil has not won the World Cup since 2002. The team failed to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since 1990, ending a streak of eight consecutive quarter-final appearances. Brazil has lost seven consecutive World Cup matches against European opponents since 2002.

Match Details: Norway vs. Brazil

Norway defeated Brazil 2-1. Erling Haaland scored two late goals for Norway. Bruno Guimaraes missed a penalty for Brazil in the 14th minute. Neymar scored Brazil's goal from a penalty kick. Norway will face the winner of the Mexico-England match in the quarter-finals.

Other World Cup Event: England vs. Mexico

England defeated Mexico 3-2 at the Azteca stadium. Jude Bellingham scored to give England a 2-0 lead. Julián Quiñones scored to reduce the deficit for Mexico. In the second half, Jarell Quansah was sent off for a tackle. Anthony Gordon won a penalty, which Harry Kane converted to make the score 3-1. Harry Kane then conceded a penalty by fouling Brian Gutiérrez, which Raúl Jiménez scored.

Injuries and Incidents

Jordan Henderson sustained an arm injury after falling over an advertising hoarding during post-game celebrations. He was taken to a hospital. Manager Thomas Tuchel confirmed the injury.

Mexican fans gathered outside England's hotel late at night to disrupt players' sleep.

Disciplinary Decisions

Belgium expressed astonishment at FIFA's decision to overturn a red card for Folarin Balogun, allowing him to play in the round of 16 match against the US. Belgium coach Rudi Garcia criticized the decision.

Player Remarks

Erling Haaland described the day as "insane" and expressed surprise at his own performance.

Thierry Henry commented on Neymar: "This is a guy I would've paid to watch. Simple as that. He could play anywhere, at any time, in any style... Neymar was, and always will be, an outstanding player."

Zlatan Ibrahimović said of Neymar: "He will be remembered as the great footballer that came over to Europe... People will say he could've done more because he didn't win the Ballon d'Or. But an amazing talent, an amazing player."