23 Red Cards As Cruzeiro vs Atlético Mineiro Final Descends Into Chaos
Sports Updated: 09 March 2026 23:39 EAT
There was 23 RED CARDS shown in the Cruzeiro vs Atletico Mineiro match
The final of the Campeonato Mineiro between Cruzeiro Esporte Clube and Clube Atlético Mineiro descended into chaos after a massive late brawl resulted in 23 red cards being issued.
The match, played in Belo Horizonte, saw Cruzeiro secure the state title with a 1-0 victory, clinching the Campeonato Mineiro trophy after a tense and physical encounter between the two fierce local rivals.
Drama erupted in the final seconds of stoppage time when Atlético Mineiro goalkeeper Everson clashed with Cruzeiro midfielder Christian while contesting a loose ball. The challenge sparked immediate anger from Cruzeiro players who rushed to confront the goalkeeper.
The situation quickly spiralled into a large-scale fight involving players from both teams, as substitutes and members of the technical staff stormed onto the pitch. Punches were thrown and players had to be separated by officials and security personnel.
With the match already nearing its end, the referee struggled to regain control as tensions remained high across the field. Once calm was restored, disciplinary action followed.
In total, 23 players were sent off — 12 from Cruzeiro and 11 from Atlético Mineiro — in what has been described as one of the most chaotic endings to a football match in Brazilian state championship history.
Several high-profile players were among those dismissed as the referee issued red cards to participants identified as being involved in the altercation.
Despite the unprecedented disciplinary scene, the final whistle confirmed Cruzeiro as champions of the competition, sealing the title in front of their supporters after the narrow victory.
The mass dismissals are expected to trigger further disciplinary action from football authorities, with potential suspensions likely for players who took part in the confrontation.
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FELIX MAKONA
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