Brazil’s run to the 2022 World Cup final ended in a thriller on Friday after Croatia pulled off a stunning upset in a penalty-kick shootout to advance to the semifinals.
The emotional loss capped a tense match that saw Neymar add another accolade to his already pristine résumé by tying Pelé’s all-time men’s national team scoring record (77) with a goal in the 106th minute. The 30-year-old superstar was visibly distraught and had to be consoled by teammates as Brazil exited the pitch in Qatar.
Shortly after the match concluded, Pelé, who has been hospitalized since Nov. 29 due to a respiratory infection, shared a heartfelt message of support to Neymar while commemorating him for his latest achievement. Neymar and his teammates recently paid homage to the Brazilian legend after their Round of 16 win over South Korea by displaying a banner in his honor.
The 82-year-old also encouraged Neymar to “keep inspiring us all” and told him he will “continue to punch the air of happiness with every goal you score.”
“I saw you grow up, I cheered for you every day and finally I can congratulate you on equaling my number of goals with the Brazilian National Team,” Pele wrote on Instagram. “We both know that it’s much more than a number. Our greatest duty as athletes is to inspire. Inspire our colleagues in the profession today, the next generations and most of all inspire all who love our sport.
Unfortunately, the day is not the happiest for us, but you will always be the source of inspiration that many aspire to become. I’ve learned as time goes by the more our legacy grows. My record was set almost 50 years ago, and no one has come close to it until now. U got there boy This values the greatness of your @neymarjr.
However, you know, as I do, that no number is greater than the joy of representing our country. I’m 82, and after all this time I hope I’ve inspired you in some way to make it this far. More than that, I hope your achievement infect the millions of people who follow you to defy what seems impossible.
His legacy is far from over. Keep inspiring us all I will continue to punch the air of happiness with every goal you score, as I did in every match I saw you on the field.”
