Neymar makes instant retirement announcement after breaking down in tears at World Cup exit

Neymar has announced his retirement from international football just moments after Brazil were knocked out of the World Cup.

The icon was in tears on the pitch as his nation were beaten 2-1 by Norway on Sunday night, crashing out in the last 16.

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He scored a consolation penalty in the dying seconds of the match, but after the loss, he confirmed that it was his final goal for Selecao.

Neymar admitted post-match: “I tried. I tried. It started here at Met Life Stadium, and I finished here. It is now over.”

The 34-year-old hangs up his international boots after playing 130 times for his country over a 16-year career.

In total, he netted 80 goals and provided 59 assists in that time.

Neymar retires as Brazil’s second all-time appearance maker and all-time top goalscorer, sitting above Pele.

The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain superstar played in four World Cups for Selecao, with his selection for this summer’s tournament leading to nationwide celebration.

He also played in two Olympics for Brazil, winning a silver and a gold medal when featuring in 2012 and 2016.

But he won’t even put on the iconic yellow shirt again, making the decision after an emotional World Cup exit.

Floods of tears

Neymar would not have wanted to end his Brazil career with a heartbreaking defeat to Norway in the last 16.

As soon as the full-time whistle blew, he sat down on the pitch and broke down in tears, looking inconsolable.

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