Brazil and Al Hilal’s forward, Neymar Santos Jnr, has collected the baton of all-time top scorer for Brazil, from the Brazilian legend, Pele.
This was following his two goals as Brazil defeated Bolivia 5-1 in a World Cup qualifying match.
Pele, who led Brazil with 77 goals between 1957 and 1971, was tied with Neymar before the game against Bolivia.
With his two goals in the match, Neymar now has 79 goals in 125 international appearances for Brazil.
After the game, Neymar said: “I never imagined reaching this record. I want to say that I am not better player than Pele.
“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.”
Pelé’s Foundation celebrates Neymar
Recall that Pelé died from cancer in Sao Paulo at the age of 82.
Pele’s foundation put out a statement on X (formerly known as Twitter), celebrating Neymar breaking the legend’s record.
“Congratulations, Neymar Jr, for surpassing the King in goals for the Brazilian National Team in official FIFA matches.
“Surely Pelé is applauding you today!”
Para sempre, Meninos da Vila! Parabéns, @neymarjr, por superar o Rei em gols pela Seleção Brasileira em jogos oficiais da FIFA. Com certeza Pelé está te aplaudindo hoje!
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Meninos da Vila, forever! Congratulations, Neymar Jr, for surpassing the King in goals for the Brazilian… pic.twitter.com/iqU3vQ2EGj— Pelé (@Pele) September 9, 2023
There have been comparisons between Neymar and Brazilian great Ronaldinho in recent weeks.
