Violence Mars Brazilian State Final as 23 Players See Red Cards

Violence Mars Brazilian State Final as 23 Players See Red Cards

A dramatic football final in Brazil descended into chaos after a violent confrontation between players of Cruzeiro and Atlético Mineiro led to 23 red cards being issued following the match.

The incident occurred during the final of the Campeonato Mineiro in Belo Horizonte, where Cruzeiro edged their rivals 1–0 to win the Minas Gerais state title for the first time since 2019.

The decisive goal was scored by Kaio Jorge, securing victory for the side coached by former Brazil national team manager Tite.

However, the closing moments of the match were overshadowed by a mass brawl involving players from both teams, forcing security officials and military police to intervene to restore order.

The altercation reportedly began when Atlético goalkeeper Everson pushed Cruzeiro midfielder Christian to the ground and placed his knee on the player’s chest after a collision while contesting a loose ball.

Christian’s teammates immediately confronted the goalkeeper, pushing him against the goalpost and triggering a wider melee as players from both sides joined the fracas.

The situation quickly escalated with punches and kicks exchanged before officials and security personnel managed to separate the players.

Although referee Matheus Delgado Candancan did not issue any red cards during the game itself, reports indicated that the intensity of the confrontation prevented the match official from disciplining players on the pitch.

Following a post-match review of the incident, 23 players were retrospectively sent off.

Cruzeiro accounted for 12 of the dismissals, including goalscorer Kaio Jorge, while Atlético had 11 players sent off. Among those dismissed were former Brazil international Hulk and defender Renan Lodi.

Despite the chaotic scenes, the match had already reached its final stages and was completed with Cruzeiro maintaining their narrow lead.

Reacting after the match, Hulk condemned the violence that marred the final.

“It’s regrettable, I have never seen violence like that in any football game,” he 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.”

Tite, whose side emerged champions, also acknowledged the supporters after the game.

“I want to convey to the Cruzeiro fans the affection and respect I have for them,” he said. “I may lack competence at times, but respect for the fans, the work, the dignity, the honesty, that’s what counts.”