Riot police intervene… 8 players from Brazil sent off against America

Eight players and members of Brazil’s women’s soccer team have been suspended after a friendly match against the United States in Fortaleza, Brazil, turned into chaos and brawl.

In the second half, thanks to an own goal scored by defender Isabella Chagas, the American team won (1-0).

After a clash between some Brazilian players and Spanish referee Paula Seboyada López, who was officiating the match, police intervened to calm the situation, after the hosts finished the game with nine men and their coach and three assistants and administrators were also sent off.

Read also

In numbers, Morocco and Brazil are the strongest in the World Cup group stage

A security lapse puts Argentina’s players at risk at the World Cup

Brazil coach Arthur Elias, who received a yellow card in the first half for clashing staff colours, was given a second warning for kicking the ball in the 77th minute, while Lopez also dismissed several members of his support staff, according to Reuters.

Pia Zanerato received a second yellow card after pushing Emily Sonnett in the last minute, while Tarciani was shown a straight red shortly after for elbowing Sophia Wilson.

After the final whistle, Brazilian striker Carolin was also sent off for protesting against Lopez, and Ludmila received a red card for mocking the referee.

“I have a lot of respect for Brazil, and it was an experience I’ll never forget,” USA coach Emma Hayes said after the game.

Brazil, which defeated the USA last Saturday (2-1), in the first match of the double-header, will host the Women’s World Cup next year.

“I hope the World Cup finals don’t look like this,” said USA midfielder Lindsay Hibbs.