During the penalty shootout preparations between Atlético Mineiro and Atlético Bucaramanga in the Copa Sudamericana round of 16, Brazilian striker Hulk engaged in a seemingly cordial conversation with Uruguayan referee Esteban Ostojich. The initial tension appeared to ease as both men shook hands and exchanged approving gestures, creating an atmosphere of reconciliation.
This conciliatory moment took an unexpected turn when Ostojich abruptly produced a yellow card and cautioned Hulk immediately after their handshake. The Atlético Mineiro captain reacted with visible disbelief and frustration, his confusion amplified by the timing of the sanction following their positive interaction.
While Atlético Mineiro ultimately advanced 3-1 on penalties, the incident sparked widespread debate about referee authority and consistency. Analysts questioned whether the card resulted from a delayed disciplinary action or an unconventional interpretation of tournament regulations. The booking carries competitive implications, as accumulated yellow cards could suspend Hulk from future knockout matches.
Hulk (Givanildo Vieira de Sousa) returned to Brazilian football in January 2021 after 16 years abroad, joining Atlético Mineiro despite offers from European and Asian clubs. His homecoming followed successful spells at Porto (75 goals), Zenit St. Petersburg (77 goals), and Shanghai SIPG (79 goals), establishing him as a globally experienced attacker.
At Atlético Mineiro, Hulk has rewritten the club’s record books, becoming their all-time top scorer in continental competitions (16 Libertadores goals) and netting 129 goals in 258 appearances. He achieved a historic “double” in 2021 as both Brasileirão and Copa do Brasil champion and top scorer, while winning five consecutive Campeonato Mineiro titles (2021-2025). A local torunament that serves as a pre-season and it is played regionally.
This episode highlights Hulk’s competitive duality: a prolific leader capable of both match-winning brilliance and emotionally charged reactions. As Atlético Mineiro advances to face Godoy Cruz in the quarterfinals, his presence remains crucial, though the unresolved disciplinary ambiguity serves as a reminder of football’s unpredictable human elements.
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