A football final in Brazil turned into a shocking battlefield after a massive brawl broke out, forcing officials to issue a staggering 23 red cards in one of the most chaotic endings the sport has seen in recent years.
The fiery clash saw Cruzeiro face rivals Atlético Mineiro in the final of the Campeonato Mineiro, the top football competition in Brazil’s Minas Gerais state.
Cruzeiro eventually emerged 1-0 winners, securing their first state title since 2019. But the trophy triumph was overshadowed by ugly scenes that erupted deep into stoppage time.
The drama began when Cruzeiro forward Christian collided with Atlético Mineiro goalkeeper Everson while contesting for the ball.
Everson appeared furious, accusing Christian of leaving his leg in during the challenge. The goalkeeper immediately sprang up and shoved the striker; a moment that triggered a full-blown melee.
Within seconds, players from both teams rushed in, with substitutes, coaches and even security staff joining the confrontation.
Punches were thrown as tempers flared across the pitch, with Brazilian football star Hulk caught in the middle of the chaos. The veteran striker was seen both receiving and throwing heavy blows during the ugly exchange.
Images taken after the clash showed goalkeeper Everson covered in blood following a serious head injury, highlighting just how violent the situation had become.
The match was halted for more than 10 minutes with only 30 seconds left in stoppage time as officials struggled to regain control.
Security personnel and military police were eventually called onto the field to separate players and restore order.
After tempers cooled, the referee allowed the game to conclude but confirmed that 23 players had been expelled following the mass brawl.
Cruzeiro players sent off included Cassio, Fagner, Fabrício Bruno, John Marcelo, Villalba, Kauã Prates, Christian, Lucas Romero, Matheus Henrique, Wallace, Gerson and Kaio Jorge.
Atlético Mineiro’s list of expulsions included Everson, Gabriel Delfim, Precious, Lyanco, Ruan Tressoldi, Junior Alonso, Renan Lodi, Alan Franco, Alan Minda, Cassierra and Hulk.
Speaking after the chaotic final, Hulk condemned the shocking scenes.
“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.”
Despite the chaos, the final whistle eventually confirmed Cruzeiro as champions, ending a six-year wait for the Campeonato Mineiro title — though the night will likely be remembered more for the unprecedented violence than the football itself.