NEYMAR broke down in tears after announcing his retirement from international football following Brazil’s shock 2-1 defeat to Norway in the World Cup Round of 16.
The 34-year-old confirmed that the heartbreaking loss would be his final appearance for the Selecao, bringing the curtain down on a glittering international career that spanned nearly two decades and saw him become one of the greatest players in Brazil‘s history.
The emotional scenes unfolded moments after the final whistle, with Neymar collapsing onto the pitch as teammates rushed over to comfort him.
Neymar said after the game: “I tried. I tried. It started here at Met Life stadium and I finished here. It is now over.”
Norway‘s players also showed their respect, embracing the Brazilian superstar as fans inside the stadium rose to applaud a player whose international career had captivated football supporters around the world.
Brazil entered the knockout clash as overwhelming favorites after an impressive group-stage campaign, and expectations were high that they would take another step toward lifting a sixth World Cup trophy. Instead, Norway produced one of the tournament’s biggest surprises, frustrating Brazil throughout the contest before delivering a famous victory.
The match began with Brazil dominating possession and creating several promising chances.
Neymar a second half substitute drifted into dangerous positions and linking well with his attacking teammates, but Norway’s disciplined defensive display prevented the South Americans from finding an early breakthrough.
They were aided by a missed penalty in the first half from Newcastle’s Bruno Guimaraes, had he scored the direction of travel of the game might have changed.
But against the run of play Erling Haaland stole a half-step on Gabriel and headed home the opener to stun the Brazilian fans at MetLife Stadium.
The goal rattled the Brazilians, who still believed they could find an equaliser, but Haaland sealed a historic Norwegian victory with a powerful strike that beat Alisson to make it 2-0.
Neymar tried to inspire a comeback with clever passes and determined runs into the penalty area, but clear-cut opportunities remained difficult to create against Norway’s organised back line.
He eventually reduced the deficit from the penalty spot after Casemiro was fouled, raising hopes of another famous comeback.
But it wasn’t to be.
When the referee blew the final whistle, the Brazilian players fell to the ground in disbelief.
Neymar stood motionless for a few moments before emotion overwhelmed him.
Tears streamed down his face as teammates and members of the squad surrounded him, fully aware they had witnessed the end of an unforgettable international chapter.
Thierry Henry paid an emotional tribute, saying Neymar was someone he would always pay to watch.
He said: “Thank you, thank you.
“This is a guy I would pay to watch. Simple as that. This guy could play anywhere, at any time, in any style.
“He would make anyone love the game with the way he played. His goals, his smile, the way he went about it, his skills.
“Every young player wanted to be Neymar. This guy changed the game with the way he played it.
“So I don’t want to talk about the World Cup or how he finished. I want to talk about what he has given to the game. Neymar was, and always will be, an outstanding player. Thank you for what you’ve done. I’ve enjoyed watching you.”
