A wild brawl in Brazil sparked an incredible 23 red cards as punches and kicks were thrown. Remarkably, the Campeonato Mineiro final between Cruzeiro and Atletico Mineiro was able to finish.
Cruzeiro beat their rivals 1-0, but the match was marred by the shocking violence from both sides.
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The brawl started in the closing stages when Atletico’s goalkeeper Everson pushed Cruzeiro midfielder Christian to the ground.
Then all hell broke loose.
Christian’s teammates all confronted Everson, which sparked a melee involving every player on the pitch, substitutes, coaches, and security staff.
Flying kicks were delivered to Everson as multiple punches were thrown.
Images from after the match showed the goalkeeper covered in blood from a serious head injury.
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Former Brazil striker Hulk, who had offers to join the Premier League in 2021 before signing for Mineiro, was at the centre of the action, being on the receiving end and delivering some heavy blows.
He himself took a flying kick from defender Lucas Villalba and retaliated with punches.
One shocking video shows Mineiro’s Hulk punching Lucas Romero in the back of the head.
Security personnel and military police were called in to restore order.
Referee Matheus Candancan also reportedly requested police protection amid the chaos.
The match was stopped for around 10 minutes before the game was allowed to finish.
A total of 23 red cards were handed out, which is a Brazilian record.
The previous record was 22 in 1954 between Portuguesa and Botafogo.
Hulk smash
“It’s regrettable, I have never seen violence like that in any football game,” Atletico forward Hulk told the local media.
“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 head coach Tite said: “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.”
CONMEBOL are said to be reviewing the incident and serious sanctions are expected
