Brazil (Rajeev Sharma): Brazilian superstar Neymar has confirmed that his time with the national team has come to an end after Brazil’s unexpected exit from the FIFA World Cup 2026. The veteran forward made the announcement shortly after the Selecao’s 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 16, bringing the curtain down on an international career that spanned over 16 years.
Speaking after the match, an emotional Neymar acknowledged that he had reached the end of his journey in Brazil’s colours. He said he had always given everything whenever he represented the country and believed it was the right moment to step away from international football.
The World Cup exit was particularly painful for the 34-year-old, who had hoped to finally lift the one major trophy missing from his illustrious career. Although he scored Brazil’s only goal of the match from the penalty spot, Norway held on to secure a memorable victory and send the five-time champions out of the tournament.
Neymar’s farewell carries symbolic significance, as his final appearance came at the same venue where he made his senior debut for Brazil as a teenager in 2010. Over the years, he evolved into the face of Brazilian football, leading the team through multiple international tournaments and carrying the expectations of millions of supporters.
He finishes his international career as Brazil’s all-time leading scorer in men’s football, with 80 goals in 129 appearances. His achievements also include winning the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup and guiding Brazil to its historic Olympic gold medal at the Rio Games in 2016.
Despite his individual brilliance, the FIFA World Cup title remained out of reach. Brazil’s campaigns ended in disappointment in 2014, 2018, 2022, and now 2026, leaving Neymar without the trophy he had chased throughout his international career.
His decision marks the end of one of the most celebrated eras in Brazilian football. As Neymar steps away from the national team, attention will now turn to the country’s emerging stars, who will be entrusted with leading Brazil into a new chapter on the international stage.
