Neymar retires from international football after Brazil's World Cup exit

Brazilian football legend Neymar Jr has announced his retirement from international football after Brazil's 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 34-year-old forward confirmed his decision moments after the final whistle, bringing the curtain down on a 16-year career with the Seleção.

An emotional Neymar was seen in tears on the pitch before speaking to reporters.

"I tried, I tried. Now it's over," he said. "I started here; I finished here," he said.

His final international appearance came at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey—the same venue where he made his senior debut for Brazil against the United States in 2010, making his farewell a full-circle moment.

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A final goal in Brazil colours

Coming on as a second-half substitute, Neymar scored Brazil's only goal from the penalty spot deep into stoppage time. However, his strike was not enough to prevent a shock elimination, as Norway advanced thanks to a late brace from Erling Haaland.

The defeat ended Brazil's hopes of winning a record-extending sixth World Cup title and marked the end of Neymar's international journey.

An enduring legacy

Although Neymar never lifted the FIFA World Cup trophy, he leaves the national team as one of Brazil's greatest players.

He retires as Brazil's all-time leading men's goalscorer with 80 international goals, surpassing Pelé's official tally. He also finishes as the country's second-most-capped player with 129 appearances, behind only Cafu.

Among his biggest achievements with Brazil are winning the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup and captaining the team to its first-ever Olympic gold medal at the Rio 2016 Games.

Club career to continue

While his international career has come to an end, Neymar is expected to continue playing club football. The veteran forward returned to his boyhood club, Santos FC, in 2025 and is expected to remain with the Brazilian side as he enters the final phase of his playing career.