Neymar surpasses legendary Pele as Brazil’s all-time top scorer | OneFootball

Neymar achieved a new milestone during Brazil’s 5-1 win against Bolivia in their 2026 World Cup qualifier last night.

The 31-year-old scored a stunning brace to register his 79th goal for La Selecao, eclipsing legendary figure Pele (77 goals) as the nation’s all-time top goalscorer.

Neymar had a tough start to the game after missing an early penalty with a weak effort. However, he redeemed himself by scoring two brilliant goals in the second half while also providing an assist.

The record had long been coming after he equalled Pelle’s tally in the quarter-final game against Croatia at the 2022 World Cup.

Neymar was the centre of discussion during the summer transfer window after he completed a shock move from Paris Saint-Germain to Al-Hilal, following in the footsteps of several other top players.

Many people criticised the former Barcelona star’s decision to quit playing at the highest level when he has a handful of good years left in him.

Rodrygo Goes also had an equally excellent outing after scoring a brace and setting up a goal.

Barcelona winger Raphinha showed his class by getting on the score sheet and setting up Neymar’s second goal.

The game marked interim head coach Fernando Diniz’s first outing with Brazil, and the highly-rated manager opened his account with a bang.

Le Selecao will face Peru next week in their final game of the September international break.