The Brazilian football derby between Vitoria and Bahia ended in chaotic scenes yesterday after ten players were sent off, before the match was eventually abandoned.
The “feisty” first-half of the derby clash featured six bookings, along with a goal by Denilson for Vitoria after 33 minutes, say the BBC.
And all hell broke lose after half-time, when Bahia were awarded a penalty. Vinicius stepped up to level the scores on 54 minutes, but after celebrating the goal in front of the Vitoria fans, a mass brawl ensued and punches were thrown.
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The game was delayed by 16 minutes, after which the referee issued eight red cards. Vinicius and three substitutes were among five players sent off for Bahia, while three red cards were given to Vitoria players.
Then, 11 minutes from time, two more Vitoria players saw red, and the match was abandoned. Rules dictate that teams require a minimum of seven players on the pitch for the game to continue.
Sky Sports says that Brazil’s sporting court will now decide what action to take over the derby chaos. According to the BBC, Bahia are likely to be awarded a 3-0 walkover victory.