Rate it!

0 votes

Copa Libertadores finalists Cruzeiro had striker Ze Carlos sent off a Brazilian record 15 seconds after kick-off for elbowing Atletico Mineiro's Renan during the Belo Horizonte derby.

Atletico won 3-0 against a Cruzeiro team full of reserves while their leading players were rested for Wednesday's second leg of the South American tournament's final at home against Estudiantes of Argentina.

They went top of the Brazilian championship standings with 21 points from 10 matches as Internacional lost 3-2 at Atletico Paranaense and are now second, a point behind.

"I slipped, went to control the ball, turned and my arm hit Renan in the face. I even said sorry but I ended up being sent off," a distraught Ze Carlos said. "It was not on purpose."

Atletico scored twice in the last four minutes of the first half through full-back Junior and Alessandro and two minutes from time Eder Luis lobbed keeper Andrey, who had come out of his area.

Palmeiras, still under caretaker Jorginho while they continue to look for a replacement for Vanderlei Luxemburgo, beat Nautico 4-1 at home and are third with 19 points.

Players and fans have said they would like Jorginho, who has presided over a draw and two wins, to be given the job.

Title-holders Sao Paulo, down in 12th place with 11 points, drew 2-2 with Flamengo despite being a man short for all of the second half after defender Renato Silva was sent off for a second booking.

Reuters