The occasion carried a powerful symmetry: Neymar made his Brazil debut at the very same MetLife Stadium in August 2010, scoring in a 2-0 friendly win against the United States. Sixteen years on, the same venue witnessed the curtain fall on his international story.
A record-breaking legacy
Neymar departs as Brazil's all-time leading scorer, having netted 80 goals for the national team. His 130 caps place him second on the all-time appearances list, behind only Cafu's record of 142.
Injuries had kept him away from international football since 2023, but he was named in Brazil's squad for the 2026 World Cup and made brief appearances in two matches — a substitute role in the group-stage victory over Scotland and his final outing against Norway.
The tournament was his fourth World Cup, having previously represented Brazil at the 2014, 2018, and 2022 editions. He departs without the one trophy that eluded him throughout a glittering career with his country.
