Cruzeiro’s first Campeonato Mineiro title since 2019 was overshadowed by unprecedented violence on Sunday, as a mass brawl in the dying seconds of the final resulted in a staggering 23 retrospective red cards. While Kaio Jorge’s goal secured a 1-0 victory in Belo Horizonte, the match ended with security staff and military police flooding the pitch to restrain players from both sides.
Referee Matheus Delgado Candancan was forced to seek police protection during the melee and later confirmed it was "impossible" to issue cards on the field. Instead, 12 Cruzeiro players and 11 Atletico Mineiro players, including former Brazil stars Hulk and Renan Lodi, were expelled in a post-match report that has sent shockwaves through Brazilian football.
The confrontation began when Atletico goalkeeper Everson reacted furiously to a collision with Cruzeiro midfielder Christian. Everson pushed Christian to the ground and reportedly planted his knee on the player's chest, prompting an immediate and violent retaliation from Christian's teammates.
What followed was a "violent melee" involving punches and kicks across the pitch:
Cruzeiro’s Lucas Romero launched a flying kick at Everson.
Matheus Henrique and Christian exchanged blows with Atletico defenders Lyanco and Junior Alonso.
Hulk, after being kicked by Lucas Villalba, retaliated with strikes of his own before clashing with his own former international teammate, Renan Lodi.
| Category | Cruzeiro (Champions) | Atletico Mineiro |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 1 | 0 |
| Players Expelled | 12 | 11 |
| Key Dismissals | Kaio Jorge, Lucas Romero | Hulk, Renan Lodi, Everson |
| League Position | 19th (Serie A) | 17th (Serie A) |
Following the incident, Atletico forward Hulk was quick to condemn the actions of both sets of players, emphasizing the global repercussions of such scenes.
It's regrettable, I have never seen violence like that in any football game. We cannot set that example because it ends up having repercussions all around the world. We have a responsibility to safeguard our image and the image of the institution.Hulk
Cruzeiro manager Tite, while celebrating the trophy, focused his post-match comments on the fans.
I want to convey to the Cruzeiro fans the affection and respect I have for them," he said. "Respect for the fans, the work, the dignity; that's what counts.Tite, Cruzeiro, Manager
According to the official match report, the following players have been sanctioned:
Cruzeiro (12): Cassio, Fagner, Fabrício Bruno, John Marcelo, Lucas Villalba, Kauã Prates, Christian, Lucas Romero, Matheus Henrique, Wallace, Gerson, and Kaio Jorge.
Atletico Mineiro (11): Everson, Gabriel Delfim, Precious, Lyanco, Ruan Tressoldi, Junior Alonso, Renan Lodi, Alan Franco, Alan Minda, Cassierra, and Hulk.
Retrospective action: The referee was unable to show cards during the fight due to the physical danger on the pitch.
Security intervention: Military police were required to separate the two factions.
Top-flight struggles: Both clubs remain winless in the Brazilian Serie A this season, currently sitting in the relegation zone.