Neymar, the Brazilian football sensation, has etched his name into the annals of history, surpassing the legendary Pele as Brazil’s all-time leading scorer during a commanding 5-1 triumph over Bolivia in the inaugural 2026 World Cup qualifier. The historic match took place at Belem’s Mangueirao Stadium on September 8.
Entering the game on equal footing with Pele, both boasting 77 goals for the national team, Neymar’s remarkable feat unfolded despite an early missed penalty. Roaring back with a brace in the second half, Neymar secured his place as a Brazilian football icon in his 125th appearance.
Pele, an iconic figure who sadly departed in December at the age of 82, had achieved his 77 goals in 92 appearances for Brazil, spanning from 1957 to 1971. His legacy as one of the greatest footballers in history has left an indelible mark on the sport.
Visibly emotional after the match, Neymar humbly expressed, “I’m incredibly happy and at a loss for words… Surpassing Pele doesn’t mean I’m superior to him or any player in the national team.” This statement reflects Neymar’s deep respect for the Brazilian football legend.
“I’ve always aspired to leave my mark on Brazilian football and the national team’s legacy. Today, I’ve achieved that. I’m immensely grateful to my family and all my friends who have supported me,” Neymar added.
The 30-year-old forward, who currently plies his trade with Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia, has had an illustrious career spanning clubs like Santos, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain. With his impressive tally of 79 goals in 124 appearances since his international debut in 2010, Neymar has cemented his status as one of Brazil’s footballing greats.
The achievement not only signifies Neymar’s exceptional skill and goal-scoring prowess but also serves as a testament to his dedication to the national team’s success. As Brazil eyes the 2026 World Cup, Neymar’s record-breaking moment injects a renewed sense of pride and optimism into the squad and its supporters.
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) congratulated Neymar on this historic achievement, acknowledging the significance of surpassing a football legend like Pele. The CBF highlighted Neymar’s impact on the sport and his role in inspiring future generations of Brazilian footballers.
As Neymar’s legacy continues to unfold, the football world eagerly anticipates the remainder of his career, with the star forward poised to leave an indelible mark on both domestic and international football. The record-breaking accomplishment adds another chapter to the rich tapestry of Brazilian football history and further solidifies Neymar’s place among the country’s footballing legends.