The Campeonato Mineiro final between Cruzeiro and their fierce local rivals, Atlético Mineiro, devolved into chaos, resulting in 23 red cards for both teams in Brazil.
The conflict on Sunday in Belo Horizonte began deep in stoppage time of Cruzeiro’s 1-0 victory when Atlético’s goalkeeper Everson rugby-tackled Christian to the ground after the midfielder clashed with him while disputing a ball that the goalie had dropped.
Everson kneeled on Christian, catching his face before shouting at his prone opponent and exerting pressure to Christian’s back.
Cruzeiro teammates reacted angrily, confronting Everson and pushing him into the net, sparking a melee.
A confrontation that began near the goal overflowed into the other half, with players kicking, punching, and pushing while security personnel and others attempted to separate them.
The brawl, which included substitutes and coaching staff, lasted more than a minute, and O Globo stated that, while the game was completed without sendings off, the referee retrospectively awarded 23 red cards, 12 to Cruzeiro players and 11 to Atlético players.
“It’s regrettable, I have never seen violence like that in any football game,” Atlético’s former Brazil forward Hulk said.
“We cannot set that example because it ends up having repercussions all around the world. We have a responsibility to safeguard our image and the image of the institution.”
Cruzeiro’s coach, Tite, a former Brazil manager, appreciated the fans for their support after the win.
“I want to convey to the Cruzeiro fans the affection and respect I have for them.
“I may lack competence at times, but respect for the fans, the work, the dignity, the honesty, that’s what counts,” he said.
The affected players were Gagner, F.Bruno, J. Marcelo, L.Villalba, K.Pitrates, Christian, L.Romero, H.Henrique, Wallace, Gerson, C.Ramos, K.Jorge, Everson, G.Delfim, A.Preciado, Lyanco, R.Tressoldi, Jr Alonso, R.Lodi, A.franco, M.Cassierra, Hulk, A.Minda, who all got the cards at 90+6 minutes.
