The Copa Libertadores is South America's biggest competition. Tensions often run high and that was evident on Thursday night when no less than eight red cards were shown at the end of Gremio vs Internacional. Yes, really. EIGHT red cards. In the 88th minute of the match, a brawl erupted on the sidelines as two players started shoving each other before the substitutes got involved. Cue the carnage. A number of Gremio players can be seen trying to kick and knee their opponents, while Internacional stars responded by dragging their rivals to the ground. The altercation, which involves pretty much everybody on the pitch, lasts well over a minute before it's eventually calmed down. Check out some footage below:
You wouldn't want to be the referee that has to sort that one out. Thankfully he did get things back under control and sent off eight players - four from each team.
This was the first meeting between Gremio and Internacional in the Copa Libertadores - it's easy to see why this fixture is regarded as one of Brazilian football's biggest rivalries.
Pepe, Luciano, Caio Henrique and Paulo Miranda were the Gremio players given their marching orders.
Meanwhile Edenilson, Moises, Victor Cuesta and Bruno Conceicao Praxedes were sent off for Internacional.
Despite the brawl just before the final whistle, the game did still finish. Unfortunately, it was a 0-0 draw.
What exactly were both sets of players getting so riled up about? We're not entirely sure.
The result means both Gremio and Internacional are still in control of Copa Libertadores Group E after two matches.
Both sides have four points, but Internacional currently top the group on goal difference.
The return fixture was scheduled to take place on March 21, but like almost every other major sporting competition, the Copa Libertadores has been postponed due to coronavirus.