Pitch Brawl in Minas Gerais Final: 23 Players Sent Off in Cruzeiro vs. Atlético Mineiro Derby

The final of the Minas Gerais Championship in Brazil, held last Sunday between Cruzeiro and their rivals Atlético Mineiro, witnessed chaotic scenes after the referee issued 23 red cards following a mass brawl between players from both teams.

The trouble began approximately 30 seconds before the end of stoppage time, when an altercation occurred between Cruzeiro striker Cristián and Atlético Mineiro goalkeeper Everson.

The challenge angered the goalkeeper, as the striker left his foot extended while exiting the goal area. Everson then responded by delivering several knee strikes towards him while he was on the ground.

Cristián's teammates quickly intervened to confront the goalkeeper, escalating tensions and drawing in several players from both sides. The pitch soon devolved into a mass brawl before security personnel stepped in to separate them.

Following these events, the referee issued a total of 23 red cards in what became one of the most chaotic matches in Brazilian football history.