LAS VEGAS — Neymar announced his retirement from international soccer on July 5, 2026, following Brazil’s 2-1 loss to Norway in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup. The 34-year-old forward ends his international career as Brazil’s all-time top goalscorer with 80 goals in 129 appearances for the national team.

Neymar entered the match against Norway as a substitute in the 68th minute and converted a penalty kick goal in stoppage time, cutting Brazil’s deficit to one. Despite his late goal, the team could not force an equalizer, ending their World Cup campaign. Neymar appeared in only two games during the tournament, coming off the bench in both contests after entering the competition with a right calf injury.

Brazil had advanced to the knockout stage by winning Group C with a 2-1-0 record. The team defeated Haiti 3-0 and Scotland 3-0, and drew 1-1 with Morocco in the group phase. Brazil then beat Japan 2-1 in the Round of 32 to set up the match against Norway. The 2026 tournament marked Neymar’s fourth World Cup appearance, having previously represented Brazil in 2014, 2018, and 2022.

Across 15 career World Cup matches, Neymar scored nine goals. His professional career includes a combined total of 457 goals and 262 assists. Born in 1992, Neymar now plays as an attacking midfielder or forward for Campeonato Brasileiro Série A club Santos, the team where he began his professional career.

Why It Matters

Neymar’s retirement closes a significant chapter in Brazilian soccer history. As the national team’s all-time leading scorer, his departure leaves a void in Brazil’s attacking options ahead of future international competitions. His decision comes after a tournament in which his playing time was limited due to injury, highlighting the physical demands on veteran players at the highest level.