Neymar overtakes Pele to become Brazil's all-time top scorer

Reactions as Neymar overtakes Pele to become Brazil's all-time top scorer

Neymar scored twice as Brazil defeated Bolivia 5-1 in a World Cup qualifying match to surpass Pele as the nation's all-time leading scorer.

The Al Hilal striker and Pele, who led Brazil with 77 goals between 1957 and 1971, were tied before the game against Bolivia.

After his two goal, Neymar In 125 international appearances now has 79 goals.

Neymar missed a penalty earlier in the game in the 17th minute

After receiving a low cross inside the penalty area, Neymar finished accurately and closely from close range to set a new record.

He gave a celebratory punch to the air, as Pele would, and broke down in tears over the momentous success.

Before the triumph over Bolivia, Neymar's most recent game for Brazil was the World Cup quarterfinal defeat to Croatia. Image Credit - Neymar/Instagram

Neymar on new record

Speaking 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

Pelé who died from cancer in Sao Paulo at the age of 82 put out a statement about Neymar breaking his record.

The message by Pele's foundation said, "Congratulations, Neymar Jr, for surpassing the King in goals for the Brazilian National Team in official FIFA matches.

"Surely Pelé is applauding you today!"

There have been comparisons between Neymar and Brazilian great Ronaldinho in recent weeks.

Due to an injury, Neymar was unable to help Brazil win the Copa America in 2019 and participated in the final defeat of Argentina in 2021. Image Credit - Instagram/CBF

Before the triumph over Bolivia, Neymar's most recent game for Brazil was the World Cup quarterfinal defeat to Croatia.

He didn't play in the Selecao's first three games of this year after leaving Qatar with uncertainty regarding his place on the national squad.

Due to an injury, Neymar was unable to help Brazil win the Copa America in 2019 and participated in the final defeat of Argentina in 2021.

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