23 players sent off in Brazilian league final after mass brawl

KATHMANDU: A state championship final in Brazil descended into chaos on Monday as a mass brawl between players led to the dismissal of 23 footballers in an extraordinary end to the Campeonato Mineiro final.

The match, played at the iconic Mineirão Stadium, saw Cruzeiro Esporte Clube defeat rivals Atlético Mineiro 1–0 to claim the title.

However, the victory was overshadowed by violent scenes that erupted in the closing moments of the game.

Clash sparks mass confrontation

Tensions flared near the end of the match when Cruzeiro midfielder Christian collided with Atlético goalkeeper Everson.

After Everson appeared to shove Christian aggressively, players from both sides rushed in, triggering a heated confrontation that quickly escalated into pushing, punching and widespread chaos on the pitch.

Referee takes historic action

Referee Matheus Candançan later issued an unprecedented decision, dismissing a total of 23 players following the altercation.

Although it was impossible to show all the cards during the disorder, the dismissals were confirmed in the referee’s official match report after the game.

Players sent off

Among those shown red cards were 12 players from Cruzeiro and 11 from Atlético Mineiro.

Cruzeiro players dismissed included:
Cássio, Fagner, Fabrício Bruno, João Marcelo, Villalba, Kauã Prates, Christian, Lucas Romero, Matheus Henrique, Wallace, Gerson and Kaio Jorge.

Atlético Mineiro players sent off included:
Everson, Gabriel Delfim, Preciado, Lyanco, Ruan Tressoldi, Júnior Alonso, Renan Lodi, Alan Franco, Alan Minda, Cássierra and Brazilian star Hulk.

A rare moment in football history

Such a large number of expulsions in a single match is considered one of the most unusual incidents in Brazilian football history.

For comparison, a match in Argentina in 2011 saw a world-record 36 red cards issued, including players and bench members.

Brazilian football authorities are now expected to investigate the incident and could impose further disciplinary sanctions on players and clubs involved in the violent confrontation.