The Last Dance Ends in Tears: Neymar Retires After Norway Knock Brazil Out

Key facts

• Result: Brazil lost 2-1 to Norway in the World Cup Round of 16 at MetLife Stadium.
• Retirement: Neymar said after the match that his international career was over.
• Goal: Neymar scored Brazil’s only goal from the penalty spot in stoppage time.
• Record: He finishes as Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 80 goals.
• Appearances: Neymar made 130 appearances for Brazil.
• Tournament: He played in four World Cups and two Olympic tournaments.

"I Started Here; I Finished Here"

After the final whistle, the Brazilian star sat hunched over in tears on the pitch. A few minutes before he scored a penalty, narrowing Norway's lead, but Brazil couldn't send the match into extra time. Last time Seleção left the World Cup in the Round of 16 was 36 years ago, in 1990. But Sunday night, this wasn't the only bad news the Brazilian fans received.

Neymar said the defeat brought his Brazil career to an end. "I started here; I finished here," he said, referring to MetLife Stadium, where he made his Brazil debut in August 2010.

Brazil lose more than the tie

Neymar made his senior Brazil debut in New Jersey in 2010, when he scored against the United States in a friendly match. Last night he scored again, but this time there was no celebration after the final whistle.

The goal against Norway was his first at this World Cup and took his Brazil tally to 80 goals in 130 appearances. He went on to play in four World Cups and two Olympic tournaments. He won the Confederations Cup in 2013 with Brazil, the Olympic gold at Rio in 2016, and silver at London in 2012.

Marquinhos asked for patience with the next generation after the exit. “We ask that people will have patience with the new generation and support them from the get-go,” he said.

The 34-year-old was one of the last names added to the squad after fitness concerns, and he sat on the bench the majority of Brazil's matches at this Cup.