Landmark Neymar brace helps Brazil thrash Bolivia

Brazil began their 2026 World Cup Qualifiers in beautiful style as they crushed Bolivia 5-1 on Friday night. Neymar scored a beautiful brace for the Selecao. In doing so, he surpassed the late Pele to turn into his nation’s all-time main purpose scorer.

Of their first recreation beneath interim head coach Fernando Diniz, the hosts received off to an ideal begin. They received a penalty within the 15^th minute.

Nonetheless, Neymar’s feeble effort was saved by Bolivian goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra because the guests survived.

But, within the 24^th minute, Brazil received their opening purpose. Actual Madrid winger Rodrygo slotted in from shut vary. After Raphinha’s preliminary shot was saved by Viscarra, Bolivia didn’t clear the ball. Rodrygo was the quickest to react and received his reward.

The Selecao began the second half with two quickfire targets from Raphinha and Rodrygo as they cruised to a 3-0 lead by the 51^st minute.

It was at all times going to take a monumental effort for the guests towards the opposition on the day. But, regardless of a reputable first half, the guests crumbled beneath strain after the restart.

Neymar is an icon for Brazil

The house crowd went into elation within the 61^st minute when Neymar thumped house a unfastened ball within the field.

This was the 31-year-old’s 78^th purpose for his nation, as he went previous Pele to steer the goalscoring charts for the enduring footballing nation. Bolivia did seize a solitary comfort within the 78^th minute by Victor Abrego earlier than Neymar accomplished the demolition together with his second of the night time deep into stoppage time.