Hulk Criticizes Referee Matheus Delgado After Chaotic Campeonato Mineiro Final

Atlético Mineiro forward Hulk openly criticized referee Matheus Delgado Candançan after the chaotic conclusion of the Campeonato Mineiro final against Cruzeiro. The match ended in disorder, with a brawl erupting in stoppage time and a total of 23 red cards issued, marking one of the most tumultuous finishes in the competition's recent history.

The incident occurred during the dying moments of the game, specifically in stoppage time, when a confrontation between Christian and Atlético's goalkeeper Everson escalated into a physical altercation. Everson's reaction triggered involvement from multiple players across both teams, leading to a large-scale fight that required intervention from security personnel and the military police to restore order.

Hulk, who was directly involved in the fracas and was seen on video throwing a punch at Lucas Romero, expressed strong dissatisfaction with the referee's management of the match. He suggested that the situation could have been prevented had Matheus Delgado exercised greater authority and control throughout the game. According to Hulk, he had warned the referee prior to the match that the game risked descending into disorder due to the referee's perceived lack of assertiveness.

"What happened? I told the referee from the start of the game that it would be a mess. He wasn't showing any personality. If he needs to send off one, two, three players, then do it! He was afraid to officiate the final. But he lacks personality," Hulk stated, highlighting his frustration with the officiating. The match was halted for over ten minutes during stoppage time as officials and security worked to calm the players before the referee ultimately ended the game.

Despite his criticism, Hulk also issued an apology for his own involvement in the violence. He emphasized that such behavior was uncharacteristic for him and expressed regret over the incident. "I don't remember ever participating in an act of violence in a football match. I will not tire of apologizing. We tried to calm things down, but in the heat of the moment, seeing a teammate being attacked, you react automatically. But it could have been avoided," he reflected.

The aftermath of this final raises questions about referee standards and disciplinary measures in high-stakes matches within the Campeonato Mineiro. Moving forward, Atlético Mineiro and Cruzeiro will likely focus on regrouping and preparing for their upcoming fixtures, while the league authorities may review the events and consider any necessary actions to prevent similar incidents in the future.