Neymar bids farewell to fans with regret after the defeat in the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup. (Source: Getty Images)
Early this morning (July 6th), in the Round of 16 match of the 2026 World Cup, Brazil unexpectedly lost to Norway with a score of 1-2. Both goals for the Nordic team were scored by Erling Haaland in the final moments of the match (79th and 90th minutes).
In this match, Neymar didn't start but was brought on by coach Carlo Ancelotti to replace Gabriel Martinelli in the middle of the second half. With a successful penalty kick in the 10th minute of added time, Neymar helped Brazil reduce the score to 1-2, but it was all too late for the Samba dancers.
Therefore, after the final whistle, Neymar burst into tears, unable to contain his regret and pain at Brazil's early exit in the round of 16. This is understandable, as this was Neymar's last World Cup.
Neymar is considered the biggest star in Brazilian football since the generation of Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, and Kaka. However, he has yet to win the World Cup, despite Brazil being the most successful team in the tournament with five titles.
Many people believe that Neymar doesn't deserve to be in the Brazilian squad for the 2026 World Cup. However, Brazilian fans still love and support him, considering the striker an icon of the Samba nation.