The game at MetLife Stadium in New York marked the end of not just a match, but an entire era. Immediately after the final whistle of the match between Brazil and Norway, which resulted in a sensational defeat for the "Selecao," Neymar could not contain his emotions. The legendary forward burst into tears right on the pitch, and later, in the locker room, made a statement that shocked the entire team: he is officially ending his career with the national team.

The Circle Closes: From Debut to Farewell

For the 34-year-old Neymar, the defeat by the Scandinavians was not just a painful elimination from the tournament, but a personal tragedy with a mystical undertone. Whether by chance or fate, he played his last match in the national team jersey at the very same arena where, back in 2010, he made his debut defending Brazil's colors in a friendly against the USA.

In the mixed zone, trying to hold back tears, the forward admitted to journalists that his family — his wife and son — supported him during this difficult moment.

"I tried, I really tried to do it again and again. But it's over. My story began here, on this MetLife Stadium pitch, and here it ends for me. There will be no more attempts," said Neymar, drawing a line under his 16-year career with the national team.

The Tragedy of the "Last Touch"

At his farewell World Cup, Neymar, unfortunately, did not become the main figure on the field. Due to his current form and head coach Carlo Ancelotti's vision, he appeared on the pitch only twice, playing a total of 37 minutes.

His last touch of the ball for the national team was decisive, but not salvaging. In the 90+10th minute, Neymar calmly converted a penalty. This goal only reduced the deficit after Erling Haaland's brace, but it was no longer enough to change the outcome of the match.

Bitter Finale and Statistics

The finale of the international career of the number 10 leaves a bitter taste. Brazil officially enters its longest period without a World Cup gold in history — by 2030, the mark of trophy absence will reach 28 years.

Neymar himself tied Thiago Silva's anti-record, becoming only the second Brazilian in history to attend four World Cups (2014, 2018, 2022, 2026) without ever lifting the planet's main trophy above his head. His only trophy at the senior national team level remains the 2013 Confederations Cup, as the 2016 Olympic gold was won with the U-23 team.

What's Next?

Despite the fact that the main dream remained unfulfilled, statistically, Neymar leaves the national team as a great player. The 34-year-old winger, whose market value on Transfermarkt has dropped to a modest 8 million euros, will now focus on his performances for Santos. Meanwhile, the Norway national team is preparing for its first-ever quarterfinal in history, turning the tournament upside down.