Neymar Retires After Brazil's 2-1 World Cup Defeat to Norway

Brazil's 2-1 defeat to Norway in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 marked the end of an era for Brazilian football, as Neymar announced his retirement from international football shortly after the match. The 34-year-old forward brought the curtain down on a career that saw him become Brazil's all-time leading men's goalscorer with 80 goals in 129 appearances.

Neymar Announces International Retirement

Neymar confirmed that the match against Norway was his final appearance for the Brazilian national team. His retirement came immediately after Brazil's elimination from the FIFA World Cup, ending a career that began with his senior debut in 2010.

The Brazilian star represented his country in four FIFA World Cups and two Olympic Games. He won a silver medal in 2012 before leading Brazil to an Olympic gold medal in 2016.

He finishes his international career with:

Neymar's International Career at a Glance

Neymar's Final FIFA World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup proved to be Neymar's final tournament in Brazil colors.

He made two substitute appearances, first coming on during the group-stage match against Scotland. His final appearance came against Norway in the Round of 16, where he scored Brazil's only goal from the penalty spot deep into stoppage time.

Despite finding the net, Brazil's World Cup journey came to an end as the late goal was not enough to avoid elimination.

Norway Beat Brazil to Reach Quarterfinals

Norway stunned five-time world champions Brazil with a 2-1 victory in East Rutherford, New Jersey, to secure a place in the World Cup quarterfinals.

Brazil had an early opportunity to take the lead after winning a penalty, but Bruno Guimarães failed to convert as goalkeeper Orjan Nyland made an important save.

The match remained level until the closing stages before Erling Haaland scored with a powerful header. The Manchester City striker added a second goal in the 90th minute, taking his tournament tally to seven goals.

Brazil were awarded another penalty in stoppage time after Leo Ostigard fouled Casemiro, and Neymar converted from the spot. However, the goal came too late as Norway held on for a historic victory.

Football Legends Pay Tribute to Neymar

Following Neymar's retirement, former France forward Thierry Henry praised the Brazilian's impact on football.

"Thank you. This is a guy I would've paid to watch. Neymar was, and always will be, an outstanding player."

Former Sweden striker Zlatan Ibrahimović also described Neymar as an "amazing talent" and said it was a sad moment for Brazilian football.

Match at a Glance