In the first round of the South American World Cup qualifiers, Brazil easily beat Bolivia 5-1 at home.
In this match, Neymar scored 2 goals, bringing his total number of goals for the national team to 79, surpassing Pele (77) to become the exclusive number one in Brazil's all-time top scorer list.
After the match, the Brazilian Football Federation presented Neymar with a special shirt and a certificate to congratulate him on becoming the all-time goalscorer of the Brazilian team.
Neymar said: "I am very happy, it is indescribable. I never thought I'd be able to reach that record and what I'm saying now is that it doesn't mean I'm better than Pele or any other player. I have always aspired to make my name in the history of the Brazilian team and today I have fulfilled that dream. ”
After the match, Neymar shared photos of the goal celebration on social media, writing: "For you, King Pele! ”
Pele's social media team posted an update congratulating Neymar, who scored 79 goals for Brazil, surpassing Pele (77) to become Brazil's all-time top scorer. Pele's team said: "Congratulations to Neymar, who surpassed King Pele's goal record in an official FIFA match and we applaud you today. ”
Brazil's Rodrigo congratulated Neymar in an interview: "Without a doubt, this is a very special day that will remain in my memory forever. Neymar is a particularly good icon and witnessing him make history really has a special memorial for me. ”