A Brazilian under-20s soccer match between Uberlandia and Mamore set a new world record with 51 red cards issued amid chaotic scenes. The semi-final first leg of the Minas Gerais Under-20 Championship was halted and ultimately abandoned after a large-scale brawl erupted in the second half.
The previous record for red cards in a single match stood at 36, set in an Argentinian fifth-division game in 2011. In this latest incident, 43 players and eight members of the coaching staff were sent off. According to reports, the conflict began when a Mamore player taunted the opposition bench after his team took a 3-1 lead. This incited Uberlandia's goalkeeping coach to enter the field, sparking widespread clashes.
The match was paused for approximately 40 minutes. The referee, Fernando Patrick Drosghic Modesto, eventually abandoned the game. The incident also resulted in significant damage to the Parque do Sabia Stadium, with military police reportedly called to the scene due to extensive destruction, including 14 broken doors, damaged shower facilities, broken windows, and wrecked benches, tables, and chairs.
Uberlandia has since conceded the second leg of the tie as a "gesture of fair play," allowing Mamore to advance to the final. This decision means Uberlandia will compete in the third-place match instead.