Prior to the match on Thursday, the 34-year-old's last goal was in December. Following a recent return from knee surgery, he continues to build towards optimal match fitness.

"Last week, they claimed I was the world's worst player. Today, I scored two goals, and that's what counts," Neymar said to SporTV.

"That's football. One day you're deemed finished or 'retired'; the next, people insist you must be selected for the World Cup.

"This was my third match this year and only my second full 90 minutes. I experienced some cramping late on, but that's simply part of the recovery process."

Brazil’s record goalscorer has been absent from the national team since October 2023 due to a terrible series of injuries, and coach Carlo Ancelotti has stated he will select only players who are fully fit and ready to compete.

The World Cup is scheduled to take place across Canada, Mexico, and the United States from June 11 to July 19.