A dramatic derby in Brazil ended in chaos. However, the drama and controversy arrived after the final whistle rather than during the decisive moment of the match.
Cruzeiro had just secured a historic victory, but the celebrations quickly gave way to a mass confrontation involving almost every player on the pitch.
Cruzeiro defeated fierce rivals Atletico Mineiro 1-0 in Belo Horizonte to win the Campeonato Mineiro title for the first time since 2019.
Kaio Jorge scored the decisive goal in a tense final, handing manager Tite his first trophy since taking charge of the club. Yet the closing moments turned ugly.
The incident began when Atletico goalkeeper Everson clashed with Cruzeiro midfielder Christian while chasing a loose ball.
After the collision, Everson pushed Christian to the ground and placed his knee on the player’s chest. That moment triggered an immediate reaction.
Cruzeiro players rushed to confront the goalkeeper, forcing him backwards toward the goalpost. Within seconds, players from both sides joined the confrontation.
Security staff and military police had to step in to separate the teams. Remarkably, no red cards were shown during the match itself.
According to Brazilian outlet Globo, referee Matheus Delgado Candancan was unable to control the situation on the pitch during the chaos. As a result, disciplinary action was taken afterwards.
A total of 23 players were retrospectively sent off. Cruzeiro saw 12 players dismissed, including goalscorer Kaio Jorge.
Atletico Mineiro had 11 players sent off, with former Brazil striker Hulk and defender Renan Lodi among those punished.
Despite the state title victory, both clubs are struggling in Brazil’s Serie A season. Cruzeiro and Atletico Mineiro currently sit 17th and 19th, respectively, after four matches.
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