EAST RUTHERFORD: Neymar has suggested he may have played his final match for Brazil after the five-time world champions suffered a shock 2-1 defeat to Norway in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 on Sunday.
The 34-year-old forward came on as a substitute in the 67th minute and scored from the penalty spot in stoppage time, but his late goal was not enough to save Brazil from elimination at New York New Jersey Stadium.
Brazil had an early chance to take control of the match when they were awarded a penalty in the 14th minute, but Bruno Guimaraes failed to convert. His effort was saved comfortably by Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland.
After the match, Neymar was visibly emotional and broke down in tears as Brazil’s campaign came to a painful end.
Speaking briefly to Brazilian channel GE TV, Neymar indicated that his international journey may be over.
“I tried, I tried … Now it’s over! I started here, I finished here,” he said, referring to the stadium where he made his Brazil debut against the United States in 2010.
If Neymar confirms his retirement, he will end his Brazil career with 80 goals and 58 assists in 130 appearances.
Despite his individual brilliance, Neymar won only one senior trophy with Brazil, the 2013 Confederations Cup.
