23 players bag red cards as Brazilian Cup final descends into absolute chaos

Absolute chaos erupted during the Campeonato Mineiro final in Belo Horizonte as 23 players were shown red cards following a massive brawl between Cruzeiro and local rivals Atlético Mineiro.

The melee broke out deep in stoppage time of Cruzeiro’s 1-0 win when Atlético’s goalkeeper, Everson, tackled Cruzeiro midfielder Christian after a collision over a spilled ball. Everson reportedly kneeled on Christian, striking his face and pressing down on his back while shouting, sparking fury from Cruzeiro players.

The confrontation quickly escalated, spilling into the other half of the field as players kicked, punched, and shoved each other. Substitutes and coaching staff were also involved in the fracas, which lasted more than a minute before being partially controlled.

No sendings-off occurred during the match itself, but the referee later issued 23 red cards retrospectively—12 to Cruzeiro players and 11 to Atlético players.

“It’s regrettable. I have never seen violence like that in any football game,” said former Brazil international Hulk. “We cannot set this example. It affects our reputation and the image of our institutions.”

Cruzeiro coach Tite, a former Brazil national team manager, thanked fans for their support after the hard-fought victory. “I may lack competence at times, but respect for the fans, the work, the dignity, and honesty—that’s what counts,” he said.

The players sent off included: 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, and A. Minda—all dismissed at the 90+6 minute mark.