A player in Brazil just gave away the strangest penalty we’ve ever seen.
Watch: Brazileirão player kicks second ball into opposing player inside the box; gives away last-minute penalty
During the Brazilian Serie A match between clubs Flamengo and Criciúma, the closing moments of the match saw Criciúma give away a penalty in one of the most bizarre plays of the year.
With Flamengo pushing for the late winner, an extra ball was thrown from the stands and into the field. Criciúma player Gustavo Barreto seized the opportunity of the extra ball on the field, stopping Flamengo winger Everton by kicking the second ball that was on the pitch at the current match ball that was in play.
There’s a lot to take in, so take a look for yourself:
Já tinha visto um pênalti desse? Segunda bola em campo, jogador do Criciúma chutou-a na que estava em jogo. Falta. Dentro da área. Pênalti. Gabigol bateu e marcou para o Flamengo. pic.twitter.com/CgLYkxKFNN
— ge (@geglobo) July 20, 2024
Only in South American soccer.
This action from Barreto was not overlooked, however, with a penalty immediately being awarded by the referee. Barreto was given a yellow card.
Fans on social media have been skeptical about the validity of the call, with many saying that the play should’ve been followed by a drop ball and a direct free kick for Flamengo.
According to the rules of the game, that’s a drop ball for the defending team
— Gregory P (@dragon35666) July 20, 2024
Law that covers this.
Credit to @ReviewEveryFoul for the screenshot. pic.twitter.com/47gaYEdaVg— thelittleowl1 (@thelittleowl11) July 21, 2024
Shouldn't it have been an indirect freekick
— Cello (@mgazi_mc) July 20, 2024
Flamengo could not afford to dispute the referee's reasoning, of course, and would go on to take advantage of the call, scoring and securing the last-minute home win.
De pênalti, Gabigol vira o jogo para o Flamengo no fim e extravasa na comemoração
Assista aos lances de Flamengo x Criciúma ➡️https://t.co/uBh90lma3S pic.twitter.com/FXE6HYZG5L— ge (@geglobo) July 20, 2024
The ball never lies.
