Igor Kornejev strict for Neymar after Brazil's World Cup exit: 'He seemed out
Igor Korneev believes that Neymar was far from his top level at the 2026 World Cup and accuses the Brazilian of a lack of dedication. After the 1-2 against Norway in the eighth finals, Neymar retired as an international player.
Igor Korneev strict on Neymar after Brazil's World Cup exit: 'He seemed out
According to Championat.
Background
Neymar, who is 34 years old, has played in two matches and scored one goal during the 2026 World Cup. His departure from the national team after the defeat to Norway means he will no longer contribute to Brazil's 2026 World Cup ambitions, which could have a significant impact on the team structure and strategy in the years to come.
Why this matters
Brazil's elimination from the 2026 World Cup has major consequences for the future of Neymar and Brazilian football. Igor Korneev's criticism of Neymar's dedication and pace of play highlights concerns over the star player's performances at the highest level. This marks the end of an era for one of the most influential players of his generation, which could also impact team dynamics and the season outlook for both the national team and his club.
Key points
- Igor Korneev strict on Neymar after Brazil's World Cup exit: 'He seemed out.
- Igor Korneev believes that Neymar was far from his top level at the 2026 World Cup and accuses the Brazilian of a lack of dedication.
- Неймар remains central to Brasil's plans.
Igor Kornejev, former coach of the Russian national team, has harsh words for Neymar after Brazil's early elimination from the 2026 World Cup. According to the Russian, the Santos attacker played a disappointing tournament and announced his retirement as an international after the 1-2 defeat against Norway in the eighth finals.
Korneev stated in the broadcast of 'Vse na Match!' on the Russian channel Match TV that Neymar was not keeping up with the pace of modern top football in the United States, Canada and Mexico. 'I think this is an appropriate moment for the end of his international career. At the world championship, his game rhythm resembled someone from a previous era. In his life he is already far removed from football: sometimes poker tournaments, then something else... For him, football is more something to do every now and then," says Kornejev.
Neymar, 34, played in two games during the 2026 World Cup and scored once from a penalty. Despite his goal, he could not guide the five-time world champion past Norway in the first knockout round. The elimination led to immediate consequences: the star striker announced his retirement from the Brazilian national team. After more than a decade at the top level, this marks the end of a chapter for one of the most defining Brazilian players of his generation.
Korneev's criticism strikes a chord in the discussion surrounding Neymar: how does his exceptional talent compare to his recent form and focus? According to the Russian, the number ten did not give the impression during this tournament that he had the absolute top condition and hunger that goes with the rhythm of the current world top. The comment that the Brazilian looked 'from a previous era' underlines that analysis and fuels the debate in Brazilabout the course after this disappointing World Cup campaign.
For Brazil, elimination in the round of 16 is a blow, given the ambitions and status of the Seleção. Norway, which struck with tight organization and effectiveness, caused a surprise in this phase by beating the South Americans 1-2. The tournament itself runs from June 11 to July 19 in the United States, Canada and Mexico, with Argentina as the reigning world champions.
Neymar played the 2026 World Cup as a striker for Santos and managed to score in limited playing time, but according to many observers - and certainly according to Kornejev - the impact fell short of expectations. His decision to retire from international football marks a clear fault line in the reconstruction that Brazil will have to embark on after this tournament. Whether the Seleção opts for a new generation or a mix with experienced forces, the Neymar era in the national shirt has finally come to an end after the defeat against Norway.
What's happening now
With Neymar's retirement from the national team, Brazil will have to refocus for future tournaments, including the 2026 World Cup. The focus will be on developing young talent and strengthening the team to perform better in international competitions. Neymar's role within his club, Santos, will also come under scrutiny as his absence from the national team could open up new opportunities for other players.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the result of the Brazil vs. Norway match?
Brazil lost 1-2 to Norway in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup.
How does Brazil's elimination affect the standings in the 2026 World Cup?
Brazil's elimination in the round of 16 means they do not advance in the tournament, which affects their position in the final standings.
What is Brazil's next match after their elimination?
Brazil will not have another match after their elimination in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup.
How many goals did Neymar score during the 2026 World Cup?
Neymar has scored one goal during the 2026 World Cup, and that was from a penalty.
Why did Neymar announce his retirement from the Brazilian national team?
Neymar has announced his retirement from the Brazilian national team following the elimination from the 2026 World Cup, marking the end of his international career.
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