Neymar Jr., Brazil's highest goal scorer in international football last played for the National team back in October 2023 when they lost against Uruguay by 0-2 in the World Cup Qualification round. Post that, it has been 12 straight games where Neymar could not feature for his country due to injury. After another shocking 0-1 defeat against Paraguay in the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers, the question of Brazil's inability to perform without Neymar has been raised again. That is why in our football facts segment, we have come up with stats to prove that Brazil do not perform well without Neymar Jr.

Neymar's debut

Neymar debuted for Brazil's National team on Aug 10, 2010, as an 18-year-old teenager while playing for Santos Football Club. He impressed each and everyone with a goal in the 72nd minute of the game against the USA to seal a 2-0 victory for Brazil in the international friendly match. It looked like he was there for at least three or four years with the National side.

Read Also | Most Iconic Rivalries in European Football Leagues: History & Stats 

Neymar's journey for Brazil over the years

Since his debut, Neymar went on to become one of the World's most valuable footballers and joined clubs like FC Barcelona where he won everything in club football and later joined PSG for a record transfer fee in 2018. Though for those two clubs, Neymar always had someone like Messi or Suraez or even Kylian Mbappe to share the load of the team, he never had that for Brazil.

In 2014 FIFA World Cup, even though he was playing his first World Cup, Neymar was the hope for the Brazilians to bring their sixth title to home. But even after socirng four goals in the tournament and finishing joint-third top scorer of the competition, he could not take Brazil to the finals, after he was brutually injured in the quarter-final match against Colombia, where he had scored a goal as well. Neymar's absence proved costly for Brazil as they were humiliated by Germany in the semis with a 1-7 defeat.

Read Also | Breaking Down the Most Iconic Football Facts and Moments of All Time 

From a young age of 22, he was made the captain of the most successful international football team in footbal history and Neymar felt the pressure of bringinng the glory to his motherland. However, he could not be there for the team in Copa America 2015 Quarter-finals due to card issues and then missed the 2016 Copa America due to injury.

However, Neymar was able to lead Brazil to their first-ever Olympic Gold medal in the 2016 Rio Olympics at home. Neymar with four goals was tournament's joint second goal scorer. 

In the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, Neymar was heading to World Cup as one of the highest goalscorers in Brazil's men's football history and was hoping to eliminate all the sorrows of 2014 and bring the glory to Brazil. Neymar scored 2 goals and assisted twice in the World Cup before Belgium elimiated them out of the tournament in the Quarter-finals.

Read Also | Statistical Overlook of Messi vs Ronaldo Debate: Who Is the G.O.A.T? 

Neymar was not named in the 2019 Copa America squad after he suffered an ankle ligament tear in the international friendly prior to the tournament.

The Copa America 2021 saw a fit Neymar on the pitch for Brazil but despite contributing five times (2 goals and 3 assists) in the tournament, they were beaten by Messi's Argentina in the penalty shootout in the final.

📊Neymar in Copa America 2021🇧🇷🏆

👕 6 Games
⚽️ 2 Goals
🅰️ 3 Assists🥈
🎯 5 G/A in 6 Games 🥈
🔑 22 Chance Create🥇
💥 9 Big Chances Create🥇
🏃‍♂️ 35 Successful Dribble🥇
👉🏻 74 Duels Won🥇
🤕 30 Fouls Won🥇
💯 Average Score 8.25🥈

🎖️ CA POTT
🎖️ CA TOTT

https://t.co/uOKn67skZd

— NEYMAR OPTA STATS 📊 (@neymaropta) May 29, 2024

Neymar's luck was not there with him again in the FIFA World Cup 2022, when he suffered an ankle injury in the first game against Serbia and missed the next two games. Though he came back to score once and assist once in the round of 16 game against South Korea, his goal against Croatia in the quarter-final could not come any handy as they were beaten in the Quarter-finals in the penalty shootout.

Post 2022 World Cup, Neymar played only four games for Brazil before he got injured with a cruciate ligament tear.

Neymar's international stats

In his 128 games so far, the Brazilian has scored a record 79 times for his country, which is a record for any Brazilian Men's football player. Along with that, he also assisted 59 times for his Brazilian teammates. 

Brazil's Stats Since Neymar Debuted

Now, since we have Neymar's journey and stats for Brazil, to discuss how Brazil have been depended on Neymar, we need Brazil's overall stat since he debuted and Brazil's stats when Neymar did not play.

So, till now, since Neymar's debut on August 10, 2010, Brazil have played 173 compettive matches including international friendlies, Copa America, World Cup qualifieres and World Cup matches. In those, 173 games Brazil won 114 times, lost 29 times and drawn 30 times. Remember this stat includes all the matches when Neymar played and also the matches he did not play.

Brazil's stats when Neymar plays

In the 128 games Neymar played for Brazil (123 starts, 5 subs), he won 93 games. Meantime, Brazil only lost 14 times during this time and drawn only 21 times. So, Brazil have a 72.65% winning rate whenever Neymar featured for them in last 14 years.

Brazil's stats when Neymar did not play

Brazil have always struggled to get going without their "Prince". Although they have players like Rodrygo, Vinicius Jr,, Richarlison, Raphinha and others, none could produce the results, Neymar prodcuded for the Selecao.

Since his debut, Neymar missed 45 games due to mostly injuries he suffered. In those 45 games, Brazil only won 21 games while lost 15 times and drawn 9 times. This means without Neymar, Brazil's win percentage drops to 46.66% which is nearly 25.99% less than when Neymar plays for them.

Brazil's stats whenever Neymar scored

Neymar's match winning skills is known to everyone. In his 128 games, Neymar scored in a stunning 60 games while scoring a record 79 goals for the senior team. In those 60 games, Brazil only lost 2 times and drawn thrice. That means Brazil won 55 out of 66 games whenever Neymar scored for them which sets a winning rate of 91.66%.

Only time Brazil found success without Neymar

The only time Brazil found sucess without Neymar, is when Brazil won the 2019 Copa America, their first trophy since 2013. They won their ninth Copa America title by beating Peru 3-1 in the final. Everton scored thrice for them, the most in the tournament while Jesus, Coutinho and Firmino scored twice throuhout the tournament. Dani Alves was the player of the tournament.

Conclusion

Though, Brazil won the 2019 Copa America title without having Neymar in their squad, it is quite proven that the Selecao have srtuglled to win without their best goalscorer on the field. Their win rate dropped nealry 26% when they Neymar did not featured for since his debut and this proves how important he has been for the national team and their history. With Neymar still having a few years left in him, do you feel Neymar would be able to bring the World Cup to Barzil again?

In the sphere of international football, legacy is not built on sentiment but on unmatched achivement. What truly counts for a national team are the trophies won at the global stage, leaving everyone behind in the race!

This list will provide you an overview of the football teams with most international trophies. Read the full article to know about their dominance in the world of football.

1. Argentina (23 international trophies)

Argentina stands as the titan in international football, having 23 trophies in their cabinet, with a rich legacy shaped by raw talent and passionate play.

Their identity is deeply rooted in the genius of legendary players such as Diego Maradona, whose individual brilliance almost single-handedly sealed the 1986 World Cup, and Lionel Messi, who finally cemented his legacy in 2022 World Cup after years of carrying the team's hope.

These players, along with Alfredo Di Stefano and Gabriel Batistuta have contributed to their style of play.

International trophy cabinet of Argentina:

Read Also: Trophies won by Argentina in International Football (Men's)

2. Brazil (20 international trophies)

One of the greatest footballing nations, Brazil, holds 20 international trophies in their stunning cabinet. They are widely recognised as a nation that produce players who redefine the sport.

Legendary figures like Pele, Garrincha, and modern maestros like Ronaldinho and Romario, have all contributed to Brazil's success in achieving this milestone. Their contributions have not been just about winning, but about entertaining and inspiring.

International trophy cabinet of Brazil:

3. Uruguay (19 international trophies)

Uruguay possesses a truly remarkable legacy in international football, regardless of its small population. They are just one trophy away to reach enter the twenties in their international trophies count, with 19 so far.

Legendary players like Obdulio Varela and Alcides Ghiggia, who had immense contribution in 1950 World Cup win, and more recently, Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez, have all profoundly shaped Uruguay's rich footballing narrative.

International trophy cabinet of Uruguay:

4. Mexico (14 international trophies)

Mexico holds a proud legacy as the dominant force in CONCACAF football, known for their passionate fan base, technical prowess, and ability to frequently challenge stronger nations.

Hugo Sanchez, Rafael Marquez, and Cuauhtemoc Blanco, are some names served in achieving the 14 international trophies.

International trophy cabinet of Mexico:

Read Also: 11 players who have won the most trophies in football history

5. USA (9 international trophies)

The USA has steadily built a legacy of growing competitiveness and professionalism, establishing itself as a successful team within the CONCACAF region.

Players like Landon Donovan, Clint Dempsey, and Tim Howard, have elevated the team's standing and inspired a new generation of American footballers. They currently hold the 5th place with 10 international trophies.

International trophy cabinet of the USA:

6. France (8 international trophies)

France holds the sixth place with 8 international trophies achivement elegantly with the efforts of world-class players and athletic brilliance. From Michel Platini of the 1980s to Kylian Mbappe, an explosive forward who's carrying the winning legacy in recent years, this team have come a long way.

Their contributions have led to some historic victories that shaped French football.

International trophy cabinet of France

Read Also: Football facts: Players with most Champions League finals without winning it ever

7. Germany (8 international trophies)

Germany's legacy in international football is built on resilience, discipline and strong winning mentality. They have won 8 international trophies which gracefully shine in their cabinet.

Legendary players like Franz Beckenbauer, the elegant "Der Kaiser" who revolutionized the sweeper role; Gerd Muller, the prolific striker; and Lothar Matthaus, a midfield powerhouse, have shaped the team's consistent success.

International trophy cabinet of Germany:

8. Egypt (7 international trophies)

Egypt holds an unparalleled legacy as the most successful nation in the history of the Africa Cup of Nations, having great consistency and dominance on the continental stage.

The "Pharaohs" are known for their tactical discipline, and ability to perform under pressure in crucial matches, which brought them 7 international trophies.

The most memorable victory for Egypt was their achievement of winning three consecutive Africa Cup of Nations titles in 2006, 2008, and 2010, a feat that cemented their status as the kings of African football.

International trophy cabinet of Egypt:

9. Spain (6 international trophies)

Spain's legacy in international football is linked to their "tiki-taka" style, a philosophy of possession-based, intricate passing football that brought unparallaled success.

This approach led to an era of consistent dominance, including a historic treble from 2008 to 2012. Legendary figures like Xavi, Andres Iniesta, and Iker Casillas were instrumental in this golden age.

Recently, the new generation talents like Lamine Yamal and Pedri, has emerged, further contributing to add up the numbers of their international trophies, which currently counts to 6.

International trophy cabinet of Spain:

Read Also: Football Wonderkids: Is Lamine Yamal the best 17-year-old footballer ever?

10. Italy (6 international trophies)

Italy won 6 international trophies in their football journey, with four World Cup wins among them. They have the capability to rise when it matters most for the nation.

Legendary players like Paolo Maldini, Gianluigi Buffon, and others have left an incredible mark on the history of team's success. The 2006 FIFA World Cup remains a memorable victory where the Azzurri peaked.

International trophy cabinet of Italy:

11. New Zealand (6 international trophies)

New Zealand won 6 international trophies and all of them were OFC Nations Cup wins, reflecting their dominance within the Oceania confederation. Their strong team spirit and discipline gets them the ability to qualify for the World Cup despite being a smaller footballing nation.

Their qualification for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, where they remained undefeated in the group stage, drawing all 3 of their matches against strong opponents, stands as a particularly memorable achievement.

International trophy cabinet of New Zealand:

12. Cameroon (5 international trophies)

Cameroon, known as the "Indomitable Lions," has forged a legacy as one of Africa's most successful footballing nations. They have achieved 5 international trophies so far, and are in own by their raw power, athleticism, and a fearless, adventurous approach to the game.

The 1990 FIFA World Cup remains their most memorable victory, where they shocked reigning champions Argentina in the opening match and became the first African team to reach the quarter-finals, with their commendable performances.

International trophy cabinet of Cameroon:

Read Also: The most shocking goal misses in Football history

13. Australia (5 international trophies)

Australia, also known as "Socceroos," have evolved from a dominant force in Oceania to a competitive presence in Asia and a consistent participant on the global stage of football.

They have won 5 international trophies so far, with players like Harry Kewell and Mark Viduka being the central to their footballing journey.

A standout memorable victory for Australia was winning the AFC Asian Cup on home soil in 2015, that increased their status as a leading footballing nation within the Asian confederation.

International trophy cabinet of Australia:

El Clasico is one of football’s biggest rivalries, between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona. Over the years, they’ve played many exciting and emotional matches, full of great goals and big moments. With stars like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, and Roberto Carlos, these games are always packed with talent and drama.

10. Real Madrid 5-0 FC Barcelona, 1995

The Real Madrid vs. Barcelona match on January 7, 1995, at the Santiago Bernabeu was unforgettable. Zamorano netted a hat-trick, leading Real Madrid to a commanding 5-0 victory in this LaLiga clash. It was one of the most one-sided El Clasico matches ever, with the home team fully dominating Barcelona.

The match gave Real Madrid an edge in the title race for La Liga.

9. Real Madrid 2-1 FC Barcelona, 2014

The Mestalla Stadium in Valencia, Spain, hosted the 2014 Copa Del Rey final between Real Madrid and Barcelona on April 16. The match seemed headed for extra time, but a brilliant 85th-minute goal from Gareth Bale secured the victory for Real Madrid. It marked their 19th Copa del Rey title.

8. FC Barcelona 5-0 Real Madrid, 2010

After dominating El Clasico the previous season, Barcelona, led by coach Pep Guardiola, continued their strong form in 2009-10. Real Madrid had spent big to rebuild their "Galactico Era," bringing in stars like Karim Benzema, Mesut Ozil, and Cristiano Ronaldo.

But Madrid’s firepower wasn’t enough. Barcelona crushed them 5-0 at the Camp Nou, with David Villa scoring twice. Messi didn’t score but played a big role in most of the goals.

Read Also: Barcelona vs Real Madrid trophy battle: Which club has won more trophies

7. FC Barcelona 3-3 Real Madrid, 2007

This LaLiga match between Barcelona and Real Madrid took place at Camp Nou on March 10, 2007, and ended in an exciting 3-3 draw. Both teams played their hearts out, making it one of the greatest El Clasico matches in recent years.

Messi scored a hat-trick, while Van Nistelrooy scored twice and Ramos added one for Madrid. A fierce, high-scoring clash that highlighted both teams' firepower.

6. Real Madrid 4-2 FC Barcelona, 2005

The early 2000s saw Real Madrid stacked with stars like Zidane, Roberto Carlos, Beckham, and Ronaldo Nazario. Despite Barcelona boasting talents like Ronaldinho, Eto'o, and Xavi, Madrid outclassed them with a 4-2 win—Zidane and Ronaldo struck early, while Raul and Owen sealed it in the second half.

5. Real Madrid 3-1 FC Barcelona, 1960

Real Madrid’s clash with Barcelona in the 1960 European Cup Semifinal is seen as a key moment in El Clasico history. Madrid won 3-1 and reached the final. Di Stefano and Ferenc Puskas found the net for Real Madrid, sealing their victory in the semifinal against Barcelona.

The match showed the strong rivalry and attacking power of both teams. It's still remembered today as one of the greatest El Clasico matches and a major turning point in their history.

4. FC Barcelona 4-0 Real Madrid, 2015

During the peak of the MSN era at Barcelona, the team looked unstoppable in Spain. But for the first El Clasico of the season, Messi was out with an injury. Surprisingly, Cristiano Ronaldo didn’t make much impact, while Luis Suárez and Neymar stepped up. They led Barcelona to a dominant 4-0 win over Real Madrid at the Bernabeu.

Read Also: Youngest goalscorers in El Clasico: Lamine Yamal breaks 77-year-old record to become the youngest ever

3. Real Madrid 4-2 FC Barcelona, 1988

With both teams playing attacking football and creating plenty of chances, this was the greatest El Clasico match of the 1980s. Butragueno gave Real Madrid the lead, but Gary Lineker put Barcelona ahead. Goals from Schuster and Michel made it 3-1 for Madrid. Julio Salinas gave Barca hope, but a late goal from Hugo Sanchez sealed the win for Real Madrid.

2. FC Barcelona 3-2 Real Madrid, 2011

One of the most intense and dramatic El Clasicos happened in 2011 during the Supercopa de Espana. The first leg ended in a 2-2 draw at the Bernabeu, but the second leg had everything—goals, fouls, and lots of drama.

Iniesta put Barcelona ahead, Ronaldo equalised, and Messi sealed it with two goals, including a late 88th-minute winner. The match turned chaotic after a foul on Fabregas sparked a brawl, leading to four red cards and Mourinho infamously poking Vilanova in the eye.

1. FC Barcelona 3-2 Real Madrid, 2017

Debatably the greatest El Clasico match of the modern era, took place in the 2016-17 LaLiga season. Real Madrid was leading the league and hoping to extend their lead, while Barcelona needed a win to stay in the title race.

What made this match unforgettable happened in the final moments. The ball was passed to Messi just outside the Real Madrid penalty area. Instead of taking a wild shot, Messi calmly placed the ball into the bottom corner, securing a crucial victory for Barcelona at their biggest rivals' home.

Following the sacking of Dorival Junior as the head coach of the Brazil national team, a move that was prompted by the Selecao's significant 1-4 defeat to Argentina in the World Cup 2026 qualifiers, the media commenced speculations discussing potential replacements.

Besides Carlo Ancelotti, Jorge Jesus has also been named as a potential candidate. However, The 70-year-old Portuguese coach has responded to these rumours, denying any negotiation with CBF to be appointed as the next head coach of Brazil, discarding the possibility as of now.

Jorge Jesus denies negotiations with Brazil

In an interview with UOL, Jesus, who is currently at the helm of Saudi club Al-Hilal, assured that he has not been contacted by anyone from the Brazilian Football Federation. "No one has spoken to me, at least until today," he stated.

The 'Globo' network has indicated that Al-Hilal head coach Jorge Jesus is the front-runner to become the head coach of the Brazilian national team.

The network also pointed out that Jorge Jesus is not keen to leave his position at Al-Hilal since he expects to stay with the Saudi Pro League side until the end of the AFC Champions League Elite, which concludes on May 3, 2025.

🚨🇧🇷 Jorge Jesus has given his initial availability to become new Brazil head coach, after the end of the season with Al Hilal.

Decision now up to the Brazilian Federation as dream target Carlo Ancelotti surely won’t be available before end of July. pic.twitter.com/122t3HfTbw

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 29, 2025

Further, the network added that Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti was the initial choice; however, he is not ready to leave his present job before the end of the 2025 Club World Cup.

The Portuguese coach aims to lead Al-Hilal to triumph in the AFC Champions League Elite and might consider stepping down before the Club World Cup to assume the coaching duty at the Brazilian national team.

Jesus addressed his relationship with Neymar

Recent developments have witnessed prominent figures such as Carlo Ancelotti and Filipe Luis pulling out of contention as of now to take over the Brazil job, solidifying Jesus's position as the front-runner.

Read Also | Brazil wants to sign current Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti 

This development might be a hurdle for Neymar Jr, who reportedly had a strained relationship with the Portuguese coach. 

Their stint together at Al-Hilal was filled with challenges, ending with Neymar leaving Al-Hilal to join Santos under controversial circumstances after being informed that he was not part of Jesus's long-term vision for the team.

When asked on the 'Charla Podcast' about the possibility of reuniting with Jesus in the national setup, Neymar seemed visibly uncomfortable and opted to answer otherwise. "I have nothing to do with this. I'm just a player; don't involve me in this. I'm out," he stated.

However, Jorge Jesus opened up about his relationship with Neymar. In the interview with UOL. "I have no issues with Neymar, but no club or national team can depend on individual players," the coach said, dismissing any conflicting triggers.

Read Also | Brazil fail without Neymar: these stats prove that

The situation raises questions about Neymar's future with the national team and the possible impact of this appointment on the team's dynamics. However, Brazil seeks to bounce back from their recent stint of setbacks and appoint a coach who can lead the team to the coveted success with the 2026 FIFA World Cup at stake.

Brazil's disappointing 4-1 defeat against Argentina at Mas Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires has insecure the head coach's place of Dorival Junior, especially with the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the USA, Canada, and Mexico just over a year away. 

Following Tite's departure after Brazil's quarterfinal exit against Croatia in the 2022 World Cup, he has been the third coach to lead the team, and the Brazilian is now being tipped to depart as well if he fails to turn around Brazil's national football team's fortune.

🚨🇧🇷 Brazilian Federation are seriously considering a managerial change as now Dorival Junior position is under review.

The dream target for July would be Carlo Ancelotti again, as @geglobo reported — but no negotiations are taking place now as it also depends on Real Madrid. pic.twitter.com/RFzPJaDgRR

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 26, 2025

Why Carlo Ancelotti?

CBF president Ednaldo Rodriguez, recently re-elected, had previously identified Carlo Ancelotti as his managerial target in 2023, with Pep Guardiola also considered before the contract extension with Manchester City. However, the Italian has indicated that any discussions would only advance after the FIFA Club World Cup, which Real Madrid will participate in between June and July in the United States of America.

Ancelotti's contract details with Madrid:

Carlo Ancelotti remains under contract with Real Madrid until 2026, and if he secures major silverware, such as Laliga, UEFA Champions League, or the FIFA Club World Cup, club president Florentino Perez is expected to keep him in charge. 

The Italian has previously stated that he would never willingly leave Real Madrid, but should the club end the season trophyless. Brazil may see an opportunity to attract him away. With Carlo Ancelotti's availability uncertain, the CBF is also considering other potential options. 

Among the names being considered is Filipe Luiz, the former Atletico Madrid defender and current Flamengo coach.

Next for Brazil:

Brazil has its next set of FIFA World Cup qualifiers in early June, playing Ecuador away and Paraguay at home. The CBF must now determine whether to keep Dorival Junior until then or appoint an interim manager while negotiations with current Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti continue behind the scenes. 

Hello and welcome to another football LIVE Blog of Sportz Point. 

This is Koushik Biswas, who will be staying up with you for this coverage. Tonight, we will be covering the Argentina vs Brazil FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers match at the Estadio Mâs Monumental in Argentina.

Argentina are currently leading the South American Qualifiers points table with 28 points from 13 games. In the meantime, Brazil are at number three with 21 points in the same number of games.  

Read Also | Argentina vs Brazil 2026 FIFA World Cup CONMEBOL Qualifiers | Match Preview, Head-to-head, Possible Lineups and Fantasy XI Prediction

The FIFA World Cup 2022 winners came from a tough 1-0 win over Uruguay. On the other hand, Brazil managed a 2-1 win over Colombia in their last match. 

So, with both teams looking confident, we have a great game in our hands. Stay tuned and enjoy the coverage.