Cruzeiro vs Atlético Mineiro Brawl: 23 red cards issued in Campeonato Mineiro final
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The state championship final in Belo Horizonte should have been remembered for Cruzeiro's long-awaited triumph.
Instead, it descended into one of the most violent episodes in Brazilian football history as players, substitutes and staff from both teams became embroiled in a mass brawl late in the match.
Key takeaways
- Cruzeiro beat Atlético Mineiro 1-0 to win Campeonato Mineiro after seven years.
- Mass brawl late in the match led to a record 23 red cards.
- Authorities expected to investigate violent scenes and issue sanctions.
Kaio Jorge strike secures title
Cruzeiro secured the trophy thanks to a decisive goal from striker Kaio Jorge, whose second-half effort proved enough to settle an emotionally charged contest.The former Juventus forward struck the only goal of the game to confirm Cruzeiro as state champions for the first time since 2019.
The match itself was fiercely contested, with nine yellow cards issued as tackles flew in throughout the encounter.
However, the drama escalated dramatically during second-half stoppage time.
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Read This Next →Goalkeeper Everson sparks chaotic scenes
The flashpoint occurred when Atlético goalkeeper Everson spilled a shot and dived at the feet of Cruzeiro midfielder Christian.As the pair rose to their feet, Everson launched into an aggressive challenge before kneeling over Christian and shouting in his face.
Cruzeiro players immediately rushed in to defend their team-mate, pushing the goalkeeper into the goalpost and net.
Within seconds the situation spiralled out of control.
Substitutes, coaching staff and security personnel flooded the pitch as punches and kicks were thrown in a sprawling melee that spread across the field.
— DG (@gols000000) March 8, 2026
Hulk among players involved
Former Brazil international striker Hulk, now 39, was among those caught up in the confrontation.Footage from the incident showed several players exchanging blows, with the Atlético forward both delivering and receiving strikes during the chaos.
One clip appeared to show Hulk punching Cruzeiro midfielder Lucas Romero from behind.
Images taken afterwards showed goalkeeper Everson with blood streaming from a head injury.pqp pic.twitter.com/Sq0zSwWCUF
— galo em baixa qualidade (@galoshitpost) March 8, 2026
EVERSON APÓS A PANCADARIA NO JOGO ENTRE CRUZEIRO X GALO pic.twitter.com/RP0z5gtzPB
— Leonardo (@Leonardosrnrj) March 9, 2026
The match was halted for around 10 minutes before play eventually resumed.
Brazilian record for red cards
Following the brawl, the referee issued a total of 23 red cards - a Brazilian record for a football match.The previous record of 22 dismissals had stood since a 1954 clash between Portuguesa and Botafogo.
Football authorities are now expected to investigate the incident, with disciplinary sanctions likely for both clubs.
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Shop Featured Deals (Fast Checkout)Hulk apologises after violence
Atlético striker Hulk expressed regret over the shocking scenes after the match.It's regrettable. I have never seen violence like that in any football game.Cruzeiro head coach Tite, meanwhile, focused on the club's long-awaited success.
We cannot set that example because it ends up having repercussions all around the world.
I want to convey to the Cruzeiro fans the affection and respect I have for them.Despite the historic trophy win, the aftermath of the explosive derby is now likely to dominate headlines as Brazilian football authorities consider possible punishments.
I may lack competence at times, but respect for the fans, the work, the dignity and honesty - that's what counts.
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