Neymar Announces Retirement from International Football After Brazil's 2026 World Cup Exit - Diaspora Digital Media (DDM News) - Nigeria Breaking News, Africa and World News and Updates

Neymar announces retirement from international football after Brazil’s 2026 World Cup exit, ending a long national-team career marked by goals, leadership, and high expectations. The 34-year-old said he is stepping away from the Selecao shortly after Brazil lost 2-1 to Norway in the Round of 16, finishing their bid for a record-extending sixth title. Neymar scored from the penalty spot late in the match, but it was not enough as Norway secured one of the biggest wins in its World Cup history. Brazil’s campaign ended earlier than supporters anticipated, extending the wait for another World Cup triumph since 2002.

Neymar leaves as Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, surpassing Pelé. He scored 80 goals in 130 appearances and added dozens of assists from his debut in 2010. He represented Brazil at four World Cups, multiple Copa Américas, the FIFA Confederations Cup, and Olympic Games. While the World Cup title remained elusive, he won the 2013 Confederations Cup, a major highlight of his international record.