BELEM, Brazil, Sept 8 (Reuters) - Brazil lived up to expectations by smashing Bolivia 5-1 at home in their 2026 World Cup qualifiers opener on Friday, with Neymar surpassing the late great Pele as the country's top scorer.
"Congratulations Neymar for surpassing the King in goals for Brazil.
Bolivia got their consolation goal through Victor Abrego's powerful shot in the 78th minute.
Brazil will look to continue their good form when they visit Peru on Tuesday in the second round of CONMEBOL qualifiers.
Reporting by Janina Nuno Rios in Mexico City; Editing by Stephen Coates and Michael PerryOur Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.
Persons:
Pele, Rodrygo, Newcastle United's Bruno Guimaraes, Antony, Victor Abrego's, Marcelo Bielsa, Janina Nuno Rios, Stephen Coates, Michael Perry
Organizations:
Neymar, Saudi, Brazil, Twitter, Newcastle, TV Globo, CONMEBOL, Chile, Leeds United, Thomson
Locations:
BELEM, Brazil, Bolivia, Al, Hilal, Brazilian, Peru, Uruguay, Mexico City