Brazil lost 1-2 to Norway and was eliminated early, with the 'Samba Legion' failing to reach the World Cup quarter-finals. 34-year-old Brazilian forward Neymar was visibly emotional after the match, tearfully saying: “I did my best, really did my best. My national team career started here, and it ends here. Now it’s all over.”
Coincidentally, this match took place at the MetLife Stadium, which was also the venue where Neymar first wore the national team jersey in the 2010 World Cup. Back then, he scored a goal in a friendly against the United States. Sadly, 16 years later, he once again stood on the same pitch, but this time his national team career drew to a close with a defeat.
Neymar was plagued by a calf injury during this World Cup and did not play until the third group stage match against Scotland. On the 5th, against Norway, he came on as a substitute in the 67th minute of the second half. Despite withstanding the pressure and scoring a penalty, he was ultimately unable to avert defeat. At the final whistle, he collapsed to the ground in tears as his teammates came over to comfort him.
Since his debut, Neymar has been regarded as the successor to the legendary Pelé, carrying Brazil’s nationwide hopes of winning the championship. Although he was unable to lead Brazil to the coveted World Cup trophy during his international career, he nonetheless made outstanding contributions to his country.