Neymar breaks Pele goal record for Brazil but Arsenal fans worry about Gabriel Magalhaes
Neymar’s two goals against Bolivia on Friday night has seen him overtake the late, great Pele to become their all-time record scorer.
The South American nation beat Bolivia 5-1 but Arsenal fans have been left worried after an apparent injury to Gabriel Magalhaes.
Neymar was on hand to make Brazilian football historyAFP
He has now surpassed the incredible feat that was set by the iconic PeleGetty
The Al Hilal star was presented with a special awardGetty
Brazil’s win saw them kick off their World Cup qualifying campaign in style on home turf.
Two goals from Real Madrid star Rodrygo and a low strike from Barcelona’s Raphinha guided them on their way to victory.
Neymar, who missed a penalty earlier on, scored the final two goals either side of Bolivia’s consolation strike.
His tally for the national team has now risen to 79, which means he has surpassed the legendary Pele’s record of 77.
Neymar is therefore the highest scoring player in the history of the Brazilian men’s national side, with Marta scoring 122 for the women’s.
He shined in what was a star-studded line-up that saw Arsenal defender Gabriel make his debut for his country.
However with six minutes left to play, he had to be substituted off following a nasty from Bolivian right-back Diego Bejarano.
Gabriel could also be seen with what looks like an ice pack strapped to his left thigh, with Arsenal fans on social media left worried.
Gabriel had to be taken off with just minutes remaining in his Brazil debut@FPLFocal X
One said: “Waking up to this makes me sick man. Is Gabriel Magalhaes okay???”
“Arsenal players shouldn’t be allowed to play for Brazil for anymore if this is going to happen every time,” added a frustrated second.
A hopeful third said: “Might be a muscle pull or a cramp doesn’t look serious but he shouldn’t play anymore so he doesn’t get worse.”
Brazil return to action on Tuesday night when they face Peru in their next qualifying match for the 2026 World Cup.
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