Top-flight clubs in bloody brawl as 23 red cards shown | Football | Sport

Fists flew and 23 players faced retrospective dismissals as Cruzeiro’s title-clinching triumph over Atletico Mineiro erupted into violent disorder in Brazil. Cruzeiro secured a 1-0 victory to capture the Campeonato Mineiro final amidst scenes of brutality.

The fixture was halted for over 10 minutes with just 30 seconds left in added time.

A clash between Atletico goalkeeper Ederson and Everson ignited the distasteful incidents. The former had taken exception to a tackle and remonstrated with his rival whilst pressing his knees onto him, which prompted Cruzeiro’s players to charge in.

Cruzeiro’s Lucas Romero launched himself at Everson with a flying boot, who had already been struck by Matheus Henrique. Christian landed a punch on Lyanco, but was subsequently booted by Junior Alonso, as mayhem ensued.

Strikes and kicks continued to be traded across the field as former Porto star Hulk assumed a prominent role. The striker was booted by Lucas Villalba and responded with blows of his own before kicking Lucas Romero and then trading punches with Renan Lodi.

Security staff from both clubs and military police were summoned to attempt to disperse the melee, with referee Matheus Candancan requesting police safeguarding amid the turmoil. Once emotions finally subsided, the match was concluded without the referee producing a red card, but 23 players were later confirmed as having been expelled.

Cruzeiro saw Cassio, Fagner, Fabrício Bruno, John Marcelo, Villalba, Kauã Prates, Christian, Lucas Romero, Matheus Henrique, Wallace, Gerson and Kaio Jorge dismissed.

Atletico’s roster of expelled players consisted of Everson, Gabriel Delfim, Precious, Lyanco, Ruan Tressoldi, Junior Alonso, Renan Lodi, Alan Franco, Alan Minda, Cassierra and Hulk.

Referee Candanca characterised it in his match report as ‘unfeasible’ to brandish a red card during the fixture.

“After being fouled, he knocked down his opponent, charged at him, and brutally struck his opponent, number 88, in the face with his knee. I clarify that after this action, a general brawl broke out, making it impossible to issue a red card,” he documented.

“For striking his opponent, number 22, in the head with his shin, using excessive force and high intensity, when the ball was already in the goalkeeper’s possession. I clarify that after this action a general brawl broke out, making it impossible to show a red card,” he continued.