Brazilian football lived up to its passionate reputation as Corinthians secured their first title in six years.
Former Manchester United player Memphis Depay was central to a massive brawl that erupted during his team`s 1-0 aggregate victory over rivals Palmeiras.
The intense second leg saw a total of FOUR red cards and 13 yellow cards handed out to players and coaching staff throughout the match.
Corinthians entered the second leg with a 1-0 advantage and successfully defended their lead at home to claim the title.
Their lead was nearly lost when Palmeiras was awarded a penalty in the 68th minute after a reckless tackle by Felix Torres.
The 28-year-old fouled Vitor Roque, leaving the referee with no choice but to award a penalty.
Surprisingly, Torres was not booked for the foul despite already having a yellow card, which enraged Palmeiras manager Abel Ferreira.
Ferreira`s angry reaction resulted in him being sent off by the referee.
Adding to Palmeiras` frustration, captain Raphael Veiga missed the penalty, and Corinthians maintained their lead.
However, Ferreira`s anger was somewhat justified as Torres received a second yellow card and was sent off just five minutes later for another poor tackle on Roque.
From that point, Corinthians focused on preserving their lead and running down the clock, resorting to time-wasting tactics.
Depay attempted to showboat near the corner flag to waste time, but his trickery backfired, triggering a mass brawl as tensions boiled over.
Depay, who joined the Brazilian league in September, balanced on the ball to prevent a defender from taking it.
The former Barcelona player was then shoved, and a mass fight erupted between the two teams.
Players and substitutes from both sides became involved in the chaotic scene.
The crowd at the Corinthians Arena reacted strongly to the unfolding brawl.
VAR reviewed the incident, and as a result, Palmeiras substitute goalkeeper Marcelo Lomba and Corinthians midfielder Jose Martinez, who had already been substituted, were both shown red cards.
Over 18 minutes of added time were played, but Corinthians held on to the 0-0 draw, winning their first title in six years.
Marcus Bellamy