By Fatma Younis
A world record 51 red cards were issued during an under-20 championship semi-final in Brazil after a mass brawl erupted between Uberlandia and Mamore.
Match abandoned after chaotic scenes
The Minas Gerais Under-20 Championship first leg descended into chaos in the second half when Mamore led 3-1. According to the referee's report, Mamore player Davi taunted the opposition bench, prompting Uberlandia goalkeeping coach Paulo Sergio Dias Dos Santos to run onto the pitch and spark a confrontation that involved players and staff.
Record-breaking dismissals
Referee Fernando Patrick Drosghic Modesto sent off 43 players and eight members of coaching staff, surpassing the previous record of 36 red cards set in a 2011 Argentine fifth-division match. Three players had already been dismissed earlier in the game.
Stadium damage and police intervention
Military police were called to the Parque do Sabia Stadium following extensive damage. A police report listed 14 broken doors, damaged shower facilities, broken windows, and destroyed benches, tables and chairs. The match was paused for about 40 minutes before being abandoned.
Uberlandia concede second leg
Uberlandia confirmed they will forfeit the second leg because Mamore have only seven players available due to the suspensions. The club described the decision as a "gesture of fair play," allowing Mamore to advance to the final while Uberlandia will focus on the third-place match.
