Brawl Breaks Out in Brazilian Youth Football, Setting Record With 51 Red Cards

In an unprecedented incident in a Brazilian youth football match, a staggering 51 red cards were handed out.

According to reports by the BBC and other outlets on the 5th (Korean time), a mass brawl erupted during the first leg of the under-20 (U-20) Minas Gerais state championship semifinal between Uberlandia and Mamore, resulting in the expulsion of 43 players and 8 members of the coaching staff, totaling 51 red cards.

This sets a new world record for the most red cards issued in a single match, surpassing the previous record of 36 set in 2011 during a match between Argentine fifth-tier clubs Club Atletico Claypole and Victoriano Arenas.

According to the referee's report, after Mamore's Davi scored the team's third goal in the second half to extend their lead to 3-1, he made a provocative gesture toward the opposing team's bench while celebrating.

In response, Uberlandia's goalkeeping coach ran onto the pitch and charged toward Davi, triggering a massive clash between players from both sides that led to the record-breaking wave of ejections.

Three players had already been sent off prior to the brawl.

Local Brazilian media reported that widespread facility damage occurred at the venue, Parque do Sabiá Stadium, prompting military police to be dispatched.

Police reports stated that 14 doors were smashed, shower facilities were vandalized, and windows were shattered.

Benches, tables, and chairs were also reportedly destroyed.

The match was suspended for about 40 minutes before the referee ultimately called an end to the game.

Following the incident, Uberlandia officially announced its decision to forfeit the second leg of the semifinal.

The club explained that due to the mass ejections, opponents Mamore were left with only seven players—the minimum required by regulations to field a team—and added that the decision was "an action in accordance with the spirit of fair play."

Consequently, Mamore advanced to the final, while Uberlandia is scheduled to compete in the third-place playoff.
(Photo: Captured from social media, Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.