Cruzeiro wins Minas Gerais championship after mass brawl leaves 23 sent off

Cruzeiro won the Campeonato Mineiro title by defeating Atlético Mineiro 1-0 in a final marred by a mass brawl that resulted in 23 expulsions, setting a record in Brazilian football.

The match took place at the Mineirão stadium. With one minute remaining in added time, Cruzeiro held a 1-0 lead when Atlético Mineiro goalkeeper Everson defended a ball and, after rising to his feet, threw himself at Cruzeiro midfielder Christian. The confrontation triggered a widespread brawl involving players from both teams.

The altercation included pushing, kicks, and punches across the field. Everson collided with the goalpost after being pushed. Cruzeiro goalkeeper Cássio required restraint from staff. Atlético Mineiro forward Hulk complained of a cut to his mouth. The arbitration team was surrounded by military police on the field as the situation unfolded.

Referee Matheus Delgado Candançan ended the match without restarting play following the brawl. According to one source, no players were expelled during the match itself. However, another source reported that 23 expulsions were issued by the referee after the final whistle, establishing a record in Brazilian football.

The victory gave Cruzeiro the state championship title, breaking Atlético Mineiro's five-year winning streak in the competition.