Late flashpoint turns derby into chaos in Belo Horizonte
A violent mass confrontation overshadowed the Campeonato Mineiro final after players from Cruzeiro and Atlético Mineiro became involved in a huge brawl that later resulted in 23 red cards. The trouble broke out deep into stoppage time of Cruzeiro’s 1-0 victory in Belo Horizonte and quickly turned an intense local derby into a chaotic scene.
The incident began when Atlético goalkeeper Everson brought down Christian after spilling the ball during a challenge. Tensions rose immediately as the midfielder ended up on the ground and players from both sides rushed in. What started near the goal soon escalated, with footballers from both teams pushing, shoving and trading blows as the situation spiraled out of control.
Players, staff and substitutes caught up in the melee
The altercation spread well beyond the penalty area and continued for more than a minute, with substitutes and members of the coaching staff also becoming involved. Security staff and other officials tried to separate those taking part, but the disorder carried on before calm was eventually restored.
Although no one was sent off during the match itself, reports later stated that the referee reviewed the events and handed out 23 red cards after full-time. Of those, 12 went to Cruzeiro and 11 to Atlético Mineiro, underlining the scale of the confrontation.
Hulk condemns scenes as Tite thanks the fans
Atlético forward Hulk described the violence as deeply regrettable and said football cannot afford to project that kind of image. He stressed that players have a responsibility to protect both their own reputation and that of their clubs, especially when such scenes are seen far beyond Brazil.
On the Cruzeiro side, coach Tite chose to thank supporters after the win. The former Brazil manager spoke warmly about the fans and said respect, honesty and dignity remain essential, regardless of results or criticism.
