WHAT HAPPENED? 

As it stands, striker Al-Hilal is on par with his legendary compatriot with 77 goals for his country. It seemed like it was only a matter of time before Neymar scored the number 78 goal and outstripped Pele, the three-time World Cup winner. 

AN OVERVIEW 

The historic goal could come against Bolivia in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, while Brazil also meets Peru next Tuesday. Neymar said of the possibility of rewriting the record book: "It is difficult to know what this record means, but it means a lot. No one has ever thought of overcoming this. That's what I'll answer when I'm done." 

WHAT DID THEY SAY 

Neymar's last start for Brazil was a 2022 World Cup quarter-final defeat to Croatia, the 31-year-old hinted after the penalty shootout loss that he could draw his homage with 124 choose for your work. He said of his career in Seleçao: "After a lot of pressure from family and friends [to return to the national team], you start to value everything you've done. When you're with people, your family, they put you in their place and make you understand that continuing to be happy in a Brazil shirt is worth it."

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? 

Neymar made his debut for the Brazilian national team in 2010. The CBF doesn't want to celebrate too much when it comes to 78 goals, as their record - slightly different from those of the officials - insists Pele has scored 95 goals for the South American nation when counting all international appearances his.