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A dramatic and chaotic scene unfolded during the Campeonato Mineiro final between Brazilian football clubs Cruzeiro and Atlético Mineiro, as a massive brawl erupted on the pitch and resulted in more than 20 players receiving red cards.
According to reports from BBC and Brazilian media outlets, the violent incident occurred during the closing moments of the match, which ultimately ended with Cruzeiro securing a 1–0 victory over their local rivals.
Fight Started After Collision Between Players
The chaos began when Cruzeiro player Christian collided with Atlético Mineiro goalkeeper Everson late in the match.
Following the collision, tensions escalated quickly. Everson allegedly swept Christian’s legs from under him and dropped onto him while on his knees, triggering an immediate reaction from Cruzeiro players.
Within seconds, players from both teams rushed into the confrontation and a large-scale fight broke out across the field.
Punches were reportedly thrown during the altercation as players pushed and shoved each other in a heated exchange.
Security and Military Police Intervene
The situation quickly spiraled out of control, forcing security personnel and military police to step in to restore order.
According to Brazilian broadcaster Globo, referees issued a total of 23 red cards after reviewing the incident, making it one of the most chaotic disciplinary moments in recent Brazilian football.
Former Brazil Star Hulk Involved
Among the players sent off was former Brazil international striker Hulk, who currently plays for Atlético Mineiro.
Video footage circulating on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) appears to show Hulk striking a Cruzeiro player in the back of the head during the melee.
A massive fight broke out between Cruzeiro and Atlético Mineiro players
— Ramy (@Ramy_Stats) March 9, 2026
Hulk clearly didn’t appreciate getting kicked 😂 pic.twitter.com/erFjVvt5Rl
After the match, Hulk addressed the incident and expressed regret.
“This fight was an unfortunate event. We cannot set this kind of example. We have a responsibility to protect our image,” Hulk said after the game, according to BBC.
Cruzeiro Win the Campeonato Mineiro Final
Despite the chaotic ending, the match result stood. Cruzeiro defeated Atlético Mineiro 1–0, securing the Campeonato Mineiro title.
The tournament is the annual state football championship in Minas Gerais, one of Brazil’s most competitive regional competitions.
Both Cruzeiro and Atlético Mineiro also compete in Brazil’s top professional league, Campeonato Brasileiro Série A, making the rivalry between the two Belo Horizonte clubs one of the fiercest in Brazilian football.
Rivalry Between Cruzeiro and Atlético Mineiro
The rivalry between Cruzeiro and Atlético Mineiro—often referred to as the Clássico Mineiro—is one of the most intense in Brazilian football.
Matches between the two Belo Horizonte clubs regularly attract massive crowds and passionate fan support.
However, incidents like the one seen in the Campeonato Mineiro final highlight how easily emotions can escalate during high-stakes matches.
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