Tensions erupted during a fiery local derby in Brazil on Sunday as an extraordinary 23 players were sent off following a massive brawl involving players and staff from both teams.
The chaotic incident occurred during the final of the Campeonato Mineiro in Belo Horizonte between Cruzeiro and Atlético Mineiro.
Atlético secured a narrow 1–0 victory, but the result was overshadowed by the violent scenes that unfolded late in the match.
Trouble began deep into second-half stoppage time when Atlético goalkeeper Everson shoved Cruzeiro midfielder Christian to the ground after the two collided while chasing a loose ball.
As Christian remained on the turf, Everson appeared to taunt him by placing his legs near the fallen player’s face before exchanging heated words.
The situation quickly spiralled out of control as furious Cruzeiro players rushed toward the goalkeeper, with one seemingly striking him from behind.
That moment ignited a full-scale melee inside the penalty area, spreading from the goalmouth and six-yard box to areas off the pitch.
Players, substitutes and members of the backroom staff from both sides became involved as security personnel struggled to restore order.
The clashes eventually moved toward the centre of the field as punches and kicks continued to fly.
Among those caught up in the chaos was veteran striker Hulk. The 39-year-old, who previously featured in the UEFA Champions League with FC Porto and Zenit Saint Petersburg, was seen on video throwing a punch at the back of Cruzeiro captain Lucas Romero, catching him off guard.
Romero immediately collapsed to the ground.
The staggering total of 23 red cards surpassed the previous record of 22 dismissals during a clash between Associação Atlética Portuguesa (RJ) and Botafogo in 1954.
The Brazilian Football Confederation has yet to announce suspensions, though both clubs are widely expected to face heavy sanctions following the disturbing scenes.
“It’s regrettable, I have never seen violence like that in any football game,’ a remorseful Hulk reflected to Brazilian local media post-match.
“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.”
Cruzeiro coach Tite later thanked supporters for their backing despite the controversy.
“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.”
Cruzeiro, currently 19th in the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A after four matches, will face Flamengo on Wednesday, while Atlético Mineiro, who sit 17th, will host Internacional.
