Neymar Relives World Cup Heartbreak: ‘It Felt Like My Own Funeral’

Brazil star Neymar has described his side’s exit from the 2022 World Cup as an experience akin to “attending his own funeral”.

The forward scored in extra time to give Brazil national football team the lead against Croatia national football team in the quarter-finals, only for Croatia to equalise and eventually win on penalties.

Reflecting on the defeat, Neymar revealed the emotional toll it took, saying the aftermath felt surreal and deeply painful.

Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, with 79 goals, admitted he feared the worst emotionally after the match, describing a sombre atmosphere among teammates and family.

Now 34, Neymar is aiming to return to the national team after a lengthy injury lay-off and hopes to feature at the upcoming World Cup, as Brazil seek their first title since 2002.