Bitter Brazilian rivals Cruzeiro and Atlético Mineiro played a cup game Sunday night, which resulted in 23 red cards after an insane brawl erupted in the 95th minute.
Cruzeiro won 1-0 after a 60th minute goal from former Juventus player Kaio Jorge, who was also sent off in the ensuing chaos that ticked off.
Atlético-MG’s goalkeeper Everson swept Cruzeiro’s Christian to the ground after a slight collision, and began kneeling on him. Cruzeiro took issue with this and many of their players pushed Everson into his own goal, prompting Atlético-MG players to start fighting too.
At one point an Atlético-MG trainer could be seen pleading to stop the carnage, shortly before kicking a Cruzeiro player who had been hit to the floor.
Brazilian “cult hero” midfielder Hulk was also involved in the fight, later saying, “We cannot set that example because it ends up having repercussions all around the world.”
Referee Matheus Delgado Candancan had to issue all 23 send-offs after the conclusion of the match, as the fight prevented him from being able to regain any control on the pitch.