Cruzeiro beats Boca 1-0 in Copa Libertadores; scuffles erupt after final whistle

Cruzeiro defeated Boca Juniors 1-0 at the Mineirão stadium in Belo Horizonte on matchday three of the Copa Libertadores group stage, moving level on points with the Argentine side atop Group D.

The Brazilian hosts pressed from the opening minutes, forcing Boca goalkeeper Leandro Brey into action early. Ecuadorian midfielder Keny Arroyo fired a powerful shot that went wide of the post in the second minute. Boca midfielder Leandro Paredes received a yellow card before the 10-minute mark, a caution that constrained his involvement for the remainder of the match.

The game's rhythm deteriorated as it progressed. Boca's physical approach, combined with Cruzeiro's difficulty controlling possession in midfield, contributed to a period of reduced attacking play from both sides.

The match was significantly affected by a red card issued to Boca defender Adam Bareiro late in the first half. Playing with a numerical disadvantage throughout the second period, Boca managed to maintain parity for much of the remaining time but conceded a goal in the closing stages.

The referee added six minutes of stoppage time. Cruzeiro secured the victory as the match entered its final moments.

Confrontations between players erupted after the final whistle. Matheus Pereira of Cruzeiro was celebrating the win when Boca players, led by Leandro Paredes, approached him. The situation escalated as additional players from both benches entered the field. Ayrton Costa and Matheus Pereira each received yellow cards for their involvement in the altercation. Local staff members attempted to separate the players, and the scuffles continued for several minutes before order was restored.