Neymar
Neymar has overtaken Pelé to become Brazil’s all-time men’s top scorer, netting twice in his national team 5-1 win in a World Cup qualifying match against Bolivia in the Amazon city of Belém
The Al Hilal forward was tied with Pelé, who scored 77 goals for Brazil between 1957 and 1971. Neymar now has 79 goals in 125 international appearances.
“I never imagined reaching this record. I want to say that I am not better player than Pelé,” said Neymar after the game. “I always wanted to make my own story, write my name in the history of Brazilian football and the national team. And today I did that.”
Brazil women’s forward Marta holds the country’s all-time record with 115 goals in 171 games.
Neymar’s record-breaking goal came after a low cross into the penalty box, which the striker finished with accuracy from close range. He celebrated with a punch in the air, as Pele usually did.
Earlier in the match, Neymar missed a penalty in the 17th minute, which goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra saved.
Pelé’s Foundation acknowledged Neymar’s achievement.
“Congratulations, Neymar Jr, for surpassing the King in goals for the Brazilian National Team in official FIFA matches,” it said on social media. “Surely Pelé is applauding you today!”
Pelé died from colon cancer on December 29, 2022 in Sao Paulo at the age of 82.