Brazil exited the World Cup with a 2-1 loss to Norway in the Round of 16, marking their seventh consecutive knockout defeat against European teams. Erling Haaland scored twice for Norway, sealing Brazil's fate and extending their drought in World Cup knockout stages. Neymar, brought on as a substitute, scored a stoppage-time penalty but could not prevent the defeat. With that goal, he became the first Brazilian to reach 80 international goals.
The match was Neymar's final appearance for Brazil. After the final whistle, he confirmed his international retirement in the mixed zone, stating, "It is all over." His international career spanned 16 years, 130 appearances, 80 goals, and 59 assists. He won the 2013 Confederations Cup and Olympic gold in 2016, but never lifted the World Cup trophy.
Back in Brazil, Neymar's father posted an emotional message on Instagram addressed to his son. Writing in Portuguese, Neymar Senior pleaded with him not to stop playing football altogether. "Son, keep playing football. Rediscover the joy of having the ball at your feet. Smile again on the field," he said. He emphasized that a decision made in sorrow should not end a lifelong passion.
The post went viral within hours, drawing support from fans across the country. Neymar Senior framed his message not as a football figure but as a father, urging his son to continue playing for the love of the game. Neymar remains under contract with Santos until the end of 2026. While his international career has ended, his club career continues.
Neymar retired immediately after scoring his 80th international goal in a losing effort, a moment overshadowed by his father's public appeal to continue playing. The emotional plea from Neymar Senior shifts focus from the player's legacy to a personal struggle no athlete should face under the glare of global grief. A father's words cannot erase the weight of seven straight European knockout losses that defined Brazil's decline. The farewell belongs to the nation, but the decision rests solely with the man who lived it.
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