From the start: no, Neymar has never won the Copa América with Brazil. Despite being one of the world’s top talents, excruciating timing and injuries have robbed him of what many consider a glaring omission in his trophy cabinet. SansBall will take you through the story — how close he’s been, when he missed out, and what’s still possible.
Brazil’s Copa América History With Neymar
To understand why Neymar hasn’t won Copa América, we need to look at the tournaments he either participated in or was expected to but didn’t.
Early participations: 2011 & 2015
- Neymar first played in the Copa América in 2011. Brazil was eliminated in the quarter-finals by Paraguay on penalties. Neymar had some standout moments, but overall Brazil fell short.
- In 2015, Neymar featured again, but Brazil exited in the quarter-finals, once more losing to Paraguay after a penalty shootout.
2019: A chance at home — missed due to injury
- Brazil hosted the Copa América in 2019, and Neymar was named in the squad. It looked like his best chance: home crowd, his established status.
- Unfortunately, in a warm-up friendly against Qatar he suffered a ligament injury in his right ankle. The injury forced him out of the tournament entirely. Brazil went on to win that edition, but Neymar was not part of the field.
2021: Final heartbreak
- In Copa América 2021, Brazil once again reached the final. Neymar played, and featured strongly throughout. But they lost togentina 1-0 in the final. So, close but no trophy.
Awards, Recognition, and What It Would Mean
Although he hasn’t won the trophy, Neymar’s performances have been recognized in Copa América tournaments.
- In 2021, he was awarded among the tournament’s best players. He scored goals, made key contributions.
- His absence in 2019 raised questions around his international legacy, because winning at home would have meant adding another major international title.
For a player with World-class club achievements, this missing international continental title is often brought up by fans and pundits alike. It’s one of those titles many expect from a top-tier Brazilian.
Why the Confusion? Myths vs Facts
There are a few myths floating around, and here’s what’s really accurate:
Myth: Neymar won the 2019 Copa América.
- Fact: He was ruled out of the tournament before it began due to injury, so he did not collect the title.
Myth: Neymar has several Copa América wins.
- Fact: Zero wins. He has one runner-up (2021), other participations, but never lifted the Copa América trophy.
Is There Still Time for Neymar?
Yes — if conditions align. Age, fitness, selection, and Brazil’s performance all matter. The next editions could offer him another shot.
- Neymar continues to be one of Brazil’s most influential players when healthy.
- If he avoids injury and Brazil advances deep, there’s always a chance.
But given how tournaments like Copa América swing on fine margins — penalty shootouts, form, coaching decisions — nothing is guaranteed.
Key Stats At A Glance
- Copa América tournaments Neymar has appeared in: 2011, 2015, 2021
- Copa América tournament he missed (while Brazil won): 2019 (due to injury)
- Best finish so far: Runner-up in 2021
Conclusion
Did Neymar win Copa América? No, he hasn’t — though he came close, particularly in 2021. Missing out in 2019 due to injury hurt, especially since Brazil won without him. SansBall hopes that the next editions give Neymar another chance to fill this gap in his international legacy. If you’re following his career or rooting for Brazil, keep watching the fitness reports, squads, and matchups — this story isn’t over yet.
If you enjoyed this breakdown, hit up the comment section: which moment do you think was Neymar’s best chance to win Copa América? And do you believe he’ll lift it before he calls time on his international career?
