Addis Ababa, March 9, 2026 (FMC) — A mass brawl overshadowed the Campeonato Mineiro state championship final in Brazil on Sunday, where 23 players were sent off following violent clashes between rivals Cruzeiro and Atlético Mineiro.
Cruzeiro secured a 1–0 victory over Atlético Mineiro in Belo Horizonte to claim the title, but the match was marred by chaotic scenes that erupted seconds before the final whistle.
The confrontation began during stoppage time after Atlético goalkeeper Everson collided with Cruzeiro midfielder Christian following a contested ball. The incident quickly escalated as players from both teams rushed in, triggering a large-scale altercation involving punches and kicks among players, substitutes, and members of the coaching staff.
Security personnel and military police were forced to intervene to restore order as the fight spread across the pitch.
After reviewing the chaotic scenes, referee Matheus Delgado Candancan issued a total of 23 red cards — 12 to Cruzeiro players and 11 to Atlético Mineiro players — in what has been described as one of the largest mass dismissals in Brazilian football.
Among those sent off was Atlético Mineiro forward Hulk, who was involved in the melee and later expressed regret over the incident.
Despite the turmoil, Cruzeiro’s victory secured the state championship title, although the match will likely be remembered more for the unprecedented on-field violence than the result itself.
The incident has drawn widespread criticism and is expected to result in disciplinary measures from football authorities as officials review the events surrounding the brawl.