FIFA WC 2026: Neymar retires from international football after Brazil’s Round of 16 exit

Neymar announced his international retirement following Brazil’s heartbreaking Round of 16 defeat to Norway at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday (IST).

Carlo Ancelotti’s side suffered a stunning 2-1 defeat to Norway in the last 16 of the tournament, with Neymar scoring a late penalty in added time after coming off the bench.

After the final whistle, Neymar broke down in tears and announced that he has played his final match for the Selecao in



an interview with Globo Esporte TV.

“I tried. I tried,” he said after the game. “It started here at MetLife Stadium, and I finished here. It is now over,” he said.

Neymar made two appearances, both as a substitute, at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He made a cameo appearance in the second half against Scotland during the group stage before he scored his lone goal of the tournament from the penalty spot in stoppage time against Norway on Monday.