Neymar, Brazil’s all-time top scorer, announced his retirement after the 2-1 (0-0) loss to Norway in the round of 16 of the World Cup. The 34-year-old told TV network Globo: “I tried, I really tried. Now it’s over.” The match took place at the final stadium in East Rutherford, where Neymar broke down in tears after the final whistle.
For Brazil, the World Cup ended earlier than it had in 36 years. Neymar had only made two brief appearances in the tournament after being set back by a calf injury. He was substituted on against Norway and scored his 80th international goal from a penalty in stoppage time.
Overall, Neymar played 130 matches for the record world champions and, with 80 goals, is the all-time top scorer ahead of Pelé. He made his debut in 2010 in a friendly against the United States — also in East Rutherford, where he also scored his first goal. Neymar now plays again in his home country for FC Santos.
Source: www.zeit.de
