Neymar Breaks Pele’s Record as Brazil Thrash Bolivia 5-1

Read about the score, goals, highlights, and Neymar’s record-breaking performance from the Brazil vs. Bolivia World Cup qualifying match. See how Neymar surpassed Pele as the all-time leading goal scorer for Brazil’s national team.

On the evening of September 8, 2023, Brazil took on Bolivia in their match of the World Cup qualifiers, at Estadio Olimpico do Para in Belem. After their 2-0 victory over Ecuador in the opening game the hosts aimed to maintain their flawless start to the campaign. On the other hand, Bolivia sought redemption following a 3-0 loss against Colombia in their first match. However, it turned out to be a one-sided affair as Brazil dominated throughout and secured a resounding 5-1 victory. The standout player of the match was Neymar, who not only scored twice but surpassed Pele to become Brazil's all-time leading goal scorer for their national team. Neymar, currently playing for Al Hilal, now boasts a record of 79 goals in 114 appearances for the Selecao. In comparison, Pele had scored 77 goals in 92 games during his career. In this blog post we will delve into the details of the scoreline goals scored moments from the match highlights and Neymar's exceptional performance that shattered records against Bolivia.

The Score

The final result saw Brazil triumph with a scoreline of 5-1. With this win and a total of six points, from two games played far, they have solidified their position at the top of the American qualifying table. On the other hand, Bolivia still finds itself at rock bottom with zero points and a goal difference standing at 8. Brazil dominated possession with 72%. Took 25 shots whereas Bolivia struggled with 28% possession and managed just four shots. Brazil also earned nine corners. Had three offside calls, against them while Bolivia only had one corner and one offside call.

The Goals

In the 24th minute, Rodrygo put Brazil ahead by kicking in a cross from Everton Ribeiro at the post. The talented winger from Real Madrid then increased his tally in the 52nd minute with a composed finish after receiving an excellent through ball from Bruno Guimaraes. Although Neymar missed a penalty in the 17th minute, he redeemed himself in the 61st minute by scoring a historic goal. He skillfully converted a cross from Raphinha within range and celebrated by punching the air, reminiscent of Pele's iconic celebrations. In injury time Neymar added another goal to his name with another hit following a cross from Raphinha. Bolivia managed to score a consolation goal in the 64th minute when Marcelo Moreno headed in a kick delivered by Erwin Saavedra. This goal marked Moreno's 25th for his country putting him on par, with Joaquin Botero as the scorer.

Neymar's Remarkable Achievement

Neymar's record-breaking accomplishment received praise from fans, teammates, and former players alike. After the match, he was honored with a plaque presented by Ednaldo Rodrigues, president of the football confederation. Neymar also received a congratulations message, from Peles Foundation on media. Expressing his joy Neymar mentioned that he was at a loss for words to describe his accomplishment. He admitted that he never expected to achieve this record and always aspired to make his mark in the team's history. Neymar humbly emphasized that he does not consider himself superior to Pele or any other player on the team. With nine goals needed, Neymar is closing in on becoming the leading goal scorer in South American history. Currently, Lionel Messi holds this title with 88 goals in 153 games. The anticipated clash between Brazil and Argentina on October 5th in Buenos Aires will witness Neymar and Messi crossing paths, on the field.