Neymar became Brazil’s second-highest goal scorer of all time on Tuesday as his hat-trick helped Brazil to a 4-2 victory over Peru in a 2022 World Cup qualifier.
The Paris St Germain forward has now scored 64 goals in 103 games surpassing Ronaldo, who scored 62 goals in 98 games for Brazil in a career of 17 years.
Peru took the lead after six minutes with a crisp volley from outside the box but Neymar equalised from the spot on 28 minutes after he had been fouled.
Peru again went ahead after 59 minutes when a shot from Renato Tapia hit Rodrigo Caio before rolling into the net but Richarlison equalised five minutes later.
Neymar put Brazil ahead with another penalty and, after Peru’s Carlos Zambrano was sent off, scored his 64th international goal when he tapped in late on to complete a 4-2 win.
Only the great Pele who netted 77 times, has scored more goals for Brazil than Neymar.
Neymar, 28, has scored his goals in 104 international appearances, while Pele played 92 times for his country.
Brazil and Argentina top the group after winning both of their opening matches, while Paraguay is third on four points.
The top four from the 10 team group will qualify directly for Qatar with the fifth-placed side going into an inter-confederation play-off.
