Brazil striker Neymar was seen apologising to Norway midfielder Martin Odegaard for kicking him during the Selecao’s 2-1 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 loss on Sunday (July 5) at New York New Jersey Stadium, East Rutherford.
Neymar, 34, came on midway through the second period, with the game still goalless, before Erling Haaland’s double ended the game as a contest for the Vikings. The Santos forward converted a late penalty to reduce arrears, but it was only academic.
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Towards the closing moments of the game, with Carlo Ancelotti’s side two goals down, Neymar brought down the Norway captain with a clumsy tackle and got a yellow card for his troubles. After scoring, the Brazilian barged straight into Odegaard.
However, following the final whistle, Neymar was seen hugging Odegaard and having a chat, seemingly apologising for his heavy tackle and barging, as shared by MO in a tweet:
The tweet has been seen over 4.4 million times at the time of writing and has had 3.3K reposts and 77K likes.
While the Selecao suffered their earliest FIFA World Cup elimination since losing 2-1 to Argentina in the Round of 16 at Italia 1990, Odegaard and Co. play 1966 champions England in their first World Cup quarter-final this weekend.
Neymar’s Brazil set to persist with Carlo Ancelotti despite 2026 FIFA World Cup exit to Norway
Brazil are set to keep their faith in legendary Italian boss Carlo Ancelotti despite suffering their earliest FIFA World Cup exit in 36 years, with a loss to Norway in the Round of 16 on Sunday.
The five-time champions had topped a group containing African champions Morocco before coming from behind to beat Japan 2-1 in the Round. However, they found a Norway side led by the in-form Erling Haaland too hot to handle.
However, Selecao’s national team coordinator Rodrigo Caetano said that the team is looking for continuity as preparations commence for the next World Cup:
“It is now up to us to emphasise the need for a cycle that proceeds normally, with a little more calmness; continuing our work with the coach through the 2030 World Cup while making the necessary adjustments,” Caetano said (as per ESPN).
“May we have at least a minimum of tranquility to move forward and prepare for the next World Cup.”
However. Neymar won’t be a part of that plan, as the all-time Selecao goalscorer (80 goals) announced his international retirement following the 2026 FIFA World Cup defeat to the Vikings on Sunday.
Edited by Bhargav
