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Palmeiras striker Diego Souza has been banned for eight Paulista championship matches after an astonishing attack on an opponent in a game last month.

Santos defender Domingos was handed a two-match ban for his part in the incident, which prompted a melee at the end of the semi-final second leg, according to Brazilian soccer's disciplinary tribunal.

Domingos, a late substitute, went to mark Diego Souza (pictured) and the pair immediately had a heated discussion before being sent off without the Santos player having even touched the ball.

Diego Souza then pushed his opponent in the chest and the Santos player fell backwards clutching his face.

A furious Diego Souza was restrained by his team mates, at one time kicking an advertising hoarding in anger.

However, when he got free he ran over to Domingos, who was standing on the touchline, and pushed him in the back, causing the Santos player to collapse again.

Palmeiras coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo accused his opposite number Vagner Mancini of bringing on Domingos with the sole purpose of provoking his team.

The Paulista is one of the regional tournaments which act as a prelude to the Brazilian championship.

Corinthians won the tournament that ended two weeks ago and the two players will not serve their bans until next year.

Santos were also fined 8,000 reais (£2,750) for coming on to the pitch late for both halves of the game.

Reuters