India, March 10 -- Cruzeiro's 1-0 win over fierce rivals Atletico Mineiro in the Campeonato Mineiro final was completely overshadowed by shocking scenes of violence, with 23 players eventually sent off after a mass brawl erupted deep into stoppage time in Belo Horizonte on Sunday. Kaio Jorge's goal had given Cruzeiro the edge in a high-stakes state final, but the result quickly became secondary as tempers exploded near the end and the match descended into chaos.

The flashpoint came in the closing moments when Cruzeiro midfielder Christian became involved in an altercation with Atletico Mineiro goalkeeper Everson. What began as a heated on-field confrontation escalated instantly when Everson reacted aggressively, dragging Christian down, ...