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Despite Breaking 52YO Record, Neymar Told to ‘Win 3 World Cups’ to Sit On the Same Table as Pele

Published 09/10/2023, 11:25 AM EDT

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Brazil, a nation known for producing soccer talent, has recently witnessed a monumental shift in its record books. Neymar, the enigmatic Brazilian forward has broken a 52-year-old record held by none other than the legendary Pele. However, as Neymar basks in the glory of his achievement, the voice of a famous Brazilian columnist has issued a resonating challenge concerning Neymar’s feat.

In the world of soccer, records are not merely statistics; they are the echoes of legends who have graced the beautiful game with their prowess. Let’s dive into Neymar’s historic feat, the shadow of Pele, and the expectations that come with rewriting history.

Neymar Jr’s record-breaking feat met with mixed reactions

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Brazil started their World Cup Qualifying campaign in winning ways as they handed a 5-1 defeat to Bolivia in their opening match. In a thrilling World Cup qualifying match against Bolivians, the Al Hilal forward became Brazil’s all-time men’s top scorer, surpassing the iconic Pele.

With two stunning goals in the Amazon city of Belém, Neymar secured a resounding victory for his team by scoring twice. This momentous achievement, however, comes with an expectation that even the most talented players can find daunting: “Win 3 World Cups” to sit at the same table as Pele.

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As reported by UOL, Milton Neves, a prominent columnist at UOL, offered his take on Neymar’s record-breaking achievement and the broader context of Brazilian football. In his column, he extended his heartfelt congratulations to Neymar while simultaneously delivering a sarcastic remark. Neves stated, “Congratulations. Now there are only three World Cups left.”

via Reuters

Neves’ comments reflect the colossal expectations placed on Brazilian players, especially those who dare to tread in the footsteps of legends like Pele. It proves the fact that while individual records are a testament to a player’s brilliance, it’s the World Cup victories that cement their status as Brazilian soccer icons.

Neves also praised Brazil’s interim coach Fernando Diniz for his coaching tactics and management in the recent game against Bolivia. He said that players understood Diniz’s philosophy and demonstrated that despite the brief training time.

Brazil eager for World Cup triumph

Neymar’s record-breaking feat is a major accomplishment, but it is not enough to put him in the same league as Pele. Pele won three World Cups with Brazil, and he is considered by many to be the greatest player of all time. If Neymar wants to be considered in the same league as Pele, he needs to deliver for the Selecao at major International tournaments.

via Getty

As Neymar and his teammates continue their journey toward the next World Cup, the focus shifts from breaking records to making history. The Brazilian soccer faithful, known for their passion and unwavering support, eagerly await the moment when the Seleção can once again lift the coveted trophy. For Neymar, surpassing Pele’s record is a significant milestone, but the true measure of his legacy will be defined by World Cup glory.

Only time will tell whether Neymar can live up to the hype and become the greatest Brazilian striker of all time. But one thing is for sure: he is a special talent, and he has the potential to do great things.

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Brazil will return to action on September 12, Tuesday, when they face Peru at Estadio Nacional de Lima, away from home.

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Written by:

Sahil Sharma

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Sahil Sharma is a soccer writer at EssentiallySports. He's been a fan since childhood, but his love for the sport truly took off when Real Madrid won their record 10th UEFA Champions League title in 2014. That famous La Decima triumph turned him into a hardcore Madridista.
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Edited by:

Jayant Chhabra