Neymar has eclipsed Pele as the highest objective scorer for Brazil’s nationwide workforce after overtaking the three-time World Cup winner’s profession whole of 77 towards nationwide groups with a objective in a World Cup qualifying match towards Bolivia.
The 61st-minute strike was Brazil’s fourth objective of the match in a 5-1 win within the Amazon metropolis of Belem, with the final objective of the sport additionally being scored by Neymar – his 79th – throughout damage time.
The 31-year-old’s record-breaking objective got here after a low cross into the penalty field, which the striker completed with accuracy from shut vary. He celebrated with a punch within the air, as Pele normally did.
“I am very happy, no words for this,” Neymar mentioned in short feedback to the media after he was handed a plaque by the president of the Brazilian Soccer Confederation, Ednaldo Rodrigues. “I never thought I would reach this record.”
Earlier, the striker – who performs for Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal – missed a penalty within the 17th minute, which goalkeeper Billy Viscarra saved.
Neymar’s second objective within the match got here similarly close to the ultimate whistle, with one other low cross by Raphinha.
Brazil’s soccer confederation considers Pele as its high objective scorer with 95 objectives in 114 matches. FIFA doesn’t depend objectives that Pele scored at nationwide workforce friendlies towards golf equipment.
“78 times Neymar,” the Brazilian soccer physique mentioned on social media after Neymar’s record-breaking objective.
Rodrigues reiterated Neymar had turn out to be “the all-time top goal-scorer for Brazil in matches against national teams”.
