Neymar Scores More Goals Than Pele Combined in A Decisive Victory For Brazil.

 

With two goals in the second half of a 5-1 victory over Bolivia in South America's 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Neymar became Brazil's all-time leading scorer, passing the legendary Pele.

The 31-year-old striker, who entered the contest tied with Pele for the game's most goals with 77, had a wonderful opportunity to break the record in the 17th minute when Brazil was given a penalty.

Guillermo Viscarra of Bolivia was able to easily save his soft spot-kick. After Viscarra parried a shot from Raphinha seven minutes later, Rodrygo quickly reacted to score the opening goal for Brazil.

Just after the half, Raphinha cut in from the left and his low shot took a deflection into the bottom corner, giving Brazil a two-goal advantage.

With a deft chipped pass that Bruno Guimaraes flicked on into Rodrygo's path, who didn't miss, Neymar contributed to Brazil's third goal.

The crucial goal, scored by Neymar in his 125th match for his nation, came when he pounced on a stray ball inside the box.

When Neymar received a plaque for the achievement, he commented, "I am very happy, no words for this." "I never imagined that I would set this record,"

While Neymar's accomplishment was recognised by the late Pele's foundation, Brazil federation president Ednaldo Rodrigues claimed Neymar had overtaken Pele as "the all-time top goal-scorer for Brazil in matches against national teams."

It posted a message on social media congratulating Neymar Jr. for surpassing the King in goals scored for the Brazilian National Team in FIFA-sanctioned games. You must get Pele's approval today, she said.

The legendary Pele, who passed away from cancer in Sao Paulo at the age of 82, was a better player than Neymar, who emphasized this despite his record.

Neymar concluded his brief speech by stating, "I want to say that this record doesn't indicate I am better than him [Pele] or than any player on the national team. I finally fulfilled a lifelong dream today by sharing my experience with the national squad.

In extra time, Neymar added to his record total by connecting with a low pass from Raphinha to seal a 5-1 triumph.

One of the greatest additions in a notable summer for the kingdom was the former Barcelona striker, 31, who recently made the switch from Paris Saint-Germain to Saudi Arabia's Al Hilal.

In the other game on Friday, Uruguay put on a show under new coach Marcelo Bielsa, defeating Chile 3-1.

With six countries qualifying directly, South America is given two additional spots in the qualification process for the 48-team World Cup that will be contested in the United States, Canada, and Mexico in 2026.