Brazil star Gabriel Martinelli has released an emotional statement after his nation's elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Selecao faced off against Norway in the Round of 16 of the tournament. A brace from superstar marksman Erling Haaland (79', 90') sunk the five-time World Cup winners as they lost 2-1 and exited the competition.
Martinelli, who started and played 68 minutes before being substituted for Neymar, penned a heartfelt message describing his emotions and apologizing to his nation's devoted fans. The statement read (via @gabimartinelli on X):
"Ever since I was a child, I dreamed of wearing the national team jersey. Scoring a goal for Brazil in the World Cup was the fulfillment of a dream. And the dream of becoming champions, which seemed so close, ended far too soon. What remains today is an immense pain. The feeling that the dream slipped through our fingers just when we believed in it the most."
The statement further read, "Thank you to every Brazilian who stood by our side throughout this entire World Cup. We felt your support in every moment, and this defeat hurts even more because we know how much you all dreamed of this too. All I can do is express my gratitude for having had the honor of wearing this shirt one more time and promise that, whenever I have the chance to represent Brazil, I will give it everything I've got."
Martinelli made four appearances (one start) at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scoring the winning goal off the bench in the Round of 32 against Japan (2-1).
"It is a great pain" - Brazil star Raphinha sends message after elimination from 2026 FIFA World Cup
Star Brazil forward Raphinha posted an emotional message on social media after the Selecao's exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 29-year-old started and played the full 90 minutes in his side's 1-1 draw with Morocco in the opening game of the group stage. In the second game, a 3-0 win over Haiti, he was substituted in the 40th minute with a hamstring injury.
He did not partake in any further action at the World Cup, watching on from the bench as Erling Haaland's Norway beat Carlo Ancelotti's side 2-1 in the Round of 16. After the game, the Barcelona man posted a poignant message on Instagram that read (via Barca Blaugranes):
"It is a great pain that we have not reached where we dreamed of together, you and us. Unfortunately, it didn't turn out how we imagined. It's part of the sport. The defeat won't always be what we want, but the pride of representing Brazil and of fighting to the end will never be erased. And for all our children who cry with us today, don't give up on your dreams. Perhaps you have watched this Cup imagining what it would be like to be there one day. Keep that dream in your heart."
After their stunning win over the five-time FIFA World Cup champions, Norway will face off against England in the quarter-final of the competition (Saturday, July 11).