Neymar surpasses Pele to become Brazil's all-time highest goal-scorer

• Image Credit: Google

• Sep 9, 2023 | Dhupali Das

Neymar, the 31-year-old striker, etched his name into the annals of football history as he surpassed the legendary Pele to...

Digital Desk: In a historic moment for Brazilian football, Neymar, the 31-year-old striker, etched his name into the annals of football history as he surpassed the legendary Pele to become Brazil's all-time leading goal scorer. Neymar achieved this milestone with two second-half goals in a resounding 5-1 victory over Bolivia during South America's 2026 World Cup qualifiers on Friday.

Prior to the match, Neymar was level with Pele on an impressive 77 goals for the national team. The anticipation was palpable as he had an early opportunity to break the record when Brazil was awarded a penalty in the 17th minute. However, Neymar's spot-kick was saved by Bolivia's goalkeeper, Guillermo Viscarra, leaving the scores goalless and the star striker visibly distraught.

Brazil eventually broke the deadlock in the 24th minute when Rodrygo capitalized on a rebound, slotting the ball home after a shot from Raphinha was parried by Viscarra. The Selecao doubled their lead just after the halftime break when Raphinha's low shot took a slight deflection and found the back of the net.

Neymar played a pivotal role in Brazil's third goal, providing a clever chipped pass that was flicked on by Bruno Guimaraes into the path of Rodrygo, who confidently finished the chance. It was then, in the 78th minute, that Neymar had his moment of glory. He seized on a loose ball inside the box and calmly tucked it away, securing his 78th goal in his 125th appearance for the national team. Neymar raised his hands and his gaze to the skies, celebrating a milestone that will be remembered for generations to come.

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Although Bolivia managed to pull one back with an unstoppable shot from Victor Abrego, Neymar had one more gift to offer to the fans. In stoppage time, he connected with a low pass from Raphinha to complete the victory and extend his record tally.

This historic achievement comes on the heels of Neymar's move from Paris Saint-Germain to Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal, marking a new chapter in his illustrious career. The Brazilian star's journey has taken him from Santos to Barcelona, and now to Al Hilal, cementing his status as one of the most recognizable and accomplished footballers of his generation.

The significance of Neymar's record-breaking feat cannot be understated, especially when it comes at the expense of a record held by the iconic Pele, who passed away in December 2022 at the age of 82. Pele scored 77 goals for Brazil in 92 appearances between 1957 and 1971, leaving an indelible mark on the world of football.

For Brazil, this victory also marked the perfect start for new head coach Fernando Diniz, who took the reins following the Selecao's quarter-final exit in the 2022 World Cup. With Neymar leading the way, the future looks bright for Brazilian football as they aim for further success on the international stage in the upcoming 2026 World Cup.