Neymar Equals Legend Pele’s Record Of 77 Brazil Goals With World Cup Quarter-Finals Strike Against Croatia

Neymar balance PelletBrazil’s record 77 goals after netting against Croatia in the quarter-finals of the World Cup on Friday. The striker scored from close range in extra time to put Brazil ahead and match Pele’s record, achieved between 1957 and 1971. Neymar’s strike helped him beat the Croatian goalkeeper. Dominik Livakovic and finished from a tight angle, giving Brazil a 1-0 lead in injury time after the first extra time. The joy didn’t last long as Bruno Petkovic equalized in the 116th minute and Livakovic showed his best form again as Croatia beat Brazil 4-2 on penalties.

Brazil’s dream of winning a sixth championship was shattered when they lost again in the quarterfinals. This is the 4th time Brazil has lost in the last 8 stages in the last 5 tournaments.

Neymar was not at his best against Croatia but kept a cool head at a crucial moment to give the home team an advantage.

Pele, who was recently hospitalized during treatment for colon cancer, is the only player in history to win three World Cups.

The 82-year-old won 1958, 1962 and 1970 with the Selecao and said earlier this week he watched his national team play in Qatar from the hospital.

Neymar is still chasing his first title, with a five-time Brazilian record last lifting the trophy in 2002, eight years before he made his national team debut.

The 30-year-old Paris Saint-Germain striker has earned iconic status with his country but has so far failed to hit the biggest stage.

Neymar scored a penalty against South Korea in the round of 16 when returning from injury, he had missed the previous two matches.

Brazilian players hold banners in memory of Pele after Monday’s 4-1 win.

(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and was automatically generated from the aggregate feed.)

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