Neymar hinted at the possibility of having played his last game for Brazil following his goal in the team’s defeat to Norway in the World Cup round of 16 on Monday.
The forward stepped up to the spot and converted a stoppage-time penalty, but it wasn’t enough to save Brazil from a 2-1 defeat. This result marks a heartbreaking exit for the five-time champions, prolonging their quest for a sixth World Cup title.
In a post-match interview with Bruno Formiga from Brazilian channel ge.tv, Neymar hinted at a significant turning point in his career, suggesting that his time with the national team may be drawing to a close. I gave it my all, I really did … The final whistle has blown! The conclusion has arrived! I started here, I finished here,” Neymar remarked, reflecting on the stadium in New Jersey, the very place where he kicked off his international career with Brazil in a friendly against the United States back in 2010.
The 34-year-old was visibly emotional following the match, shedding tears in a poignant display of passion and dedication. In a disheartening turn of events, the national team delivered its most disappointing World Cup showing since 1990.
Brazil is on the brink of experiencing their longest drought without a World Cup title since they first lifted the trophy. The pressure is mounting as the storied footballing nation grapples with the weight of expectations and the quest to reclaim its former glory. By 2030, it will mark a staggering 28 years since they last hoisted the trophy.
If Neymar chooses to retire from international football, he will end his illustrious Brazil career with an impressive total of 80 goals and 58 assists in 130 appearances.
Neymar has amassed a plethora of titles during his club career, yet his sole senior accolade with the Brazilian national team remains the 2013 Confederations Cup.
