A rare case of 23 red cards being shown in a single match in Brazilian club football has been confirmed. The referee made the decision after a late clash between Cruzeiro and Atletico Mineiro in the final of the Campeonato Mineiro tournament.
The match was held at Belo Horizonte’s historic Estadio Garbanado Magalhaes Pinto Stadium, known locally as ‘Mineirao’. It was at this ground that Brazil suffered a painful chapter in football history, known as the ‘Mineirao’, when they lost 7–1 to Germany in the 2014 World Cup semi-final.
Cruzeiro won the title by defeating Atletico Mineiro 1-0 in the final held early Monday morning Bangladesh time. However, tensions quickly escalated into a clash over a possession of the ball in the final moments of the match.
The incident began when Atletico Mineiro goalkeeper Everson clashed with Cruzeiro midfielder Cristian while competing for a loose ball. The situation later escalated, with players from both teams engaging in scuffles and pushing each other.
The field quickly became chaotic. Security personnel had to intervene to stop the fighting. In this situation, referee Matheus Delgado showed red cards to several players and related persons. Analysts believe that the total of 23 red cards is extremely rare in football.
After the match, Atletico Mineiro forward Hulk expressed regret for the incident. “It’s a sad incident. It’s very rare to see such clashes on a football field. We should set a good example with our behavior,” he told local media.
Following the incident, discussions have begun in Brazilian football circles about the match’s disciplinary violations and security management.