Pelé, the Brazilian football legend, congratulated Neymar for equaling his record with the Brazilian national team, in terms of international goals, and urged him to “keep inspiring us” amid doubts about his international future.
Neymar scored his international goal no. 77 for the Brazil national team in the first overtime of their quarterfinal match against the Croatia national team on Friday.
But Bruno Petkovic equalized in the 117th minute, and the Croatian national team managed to beat the Brazilian national team 4-2 on penalties to qualify for the semi-finals, where they face the Argentina national team on Tuesday.
Paris Saint-Germain star Neymar indicated after the match that he may be playing his last match for the Brazil national team, although he will abstain from making the decision officially.
And while for Neymar (30 years old) it was a bittersweet occasion, Pele, hospitalized for a respiratory infection, went on social media to praise his compatriot.
Pelé wrote on “Instagram”: I have seen you grow, I have encouraged you every day and at the end I can congratulate you for equaling my number of goals with the Brazilian national team.
He added: We all know this is more than just a number. Our great mission as athletes is to inspire.
He continued: To inspire our fellow professionals, future generations and above all to inspire everyone who loves our sport.
She stressed: Unfortunately, today is not our happiest day, but you will always be the inspiration many aspire to.
And he added: I learned that the more time passes, the more our legacy increases. I almost hit my number 50 years ago and no one has come close yet.
And he confirmed: I get it, boy. This adds to the magnitude of your success. But, you know, I know there’s no number greater than the joy of representing the country than him.
She continued: I’m 82 years old, and after all this age, I hope I’ve inspired you in some way to achieve what I’ve achieved. Also, I hope your success spreads to the millions of people who follow you to challenge the seemingly impossible.
He continued, “Your legacy isn’t over yet.” She continues to inspire us. I will continue to hit the air with glee with every goal you score, as I have in every game I have watched you.
