Brazil sees red eight times as the US wins the chaotic women’s match in Fortaleza

The Brazilian women’s team and staff were sent off on Tuesday when their friendly against the United States descended into bad-tempered chaos in Fortaleza on Tuesday.

The US won 1-0 after an own goal from defender Isabela Chagas in the second half, but the result was overshadowed by a series of confrontations with Spanish referee Paola Cebollada Lopez.

Riot police intervened to calm the situation after some Brazilian players confronted the referee. The host finished the match with nine players, while coach Arthur Elias and three members of his staff were also sent off the field.

Elias, who received a yellow card in the first half after a kit-related dispute, received a second yellow card in the 77th minute after kicking the ball away. Lopez also dismissed some members of his staff during the same passage of play.

Brazil’s frustration grew over time. Bia Zaneratto was shown a second yellow card for pushing Emily Sonnett, before Tarciane was sent off shortly afterwards for elbowing Sophia Wilson.

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The flashpoints continued after the final whistle. Brazilian forward Kerolin was sent off for arguing with Lopez, while Ludmila was also dismissed after sarcastically cheering the referee.

“I have a lot of respect for Brazil and it was an experience I will never forget,” U.S. coach Emma Hayes said after the match.

Brazil had beaten the US 2-1 in the first match of the double-header on Saturday. The South American country will host the Women’s Football World Cup next year.

“I hope this isn’t what a World Cup final looks like,” said American midfielder Lindsey Heaps.

Published on June 10, 2026