Gabriel Jesus was sent off for Brazil after producing a wild karate kick challenge against Chile.
The Selecao won 1-0 in the Copa America quarter-final courtesy of Lucas Paqueta’s goal straight after half-time.
But mere minutes after the AC Milan midfielder scored the winner with an instant impact, Jesus was given his marching orders when he caught Eugenio Mena square in the face with his boot.
The Manchester City striker had eyes for the ball but Mena headed it away before Jesus could get there, resulting in an incredibly dangerous high tackle from the 24-year-old.
— Drew McIntyre (@DMcIntyreWWE) July 3, 2021
Gabriel Jesus’ red card for Brazil… pic.twitter.com/e9bpH68Mxl
— Man City Report (@cityreport_) July 3, 2021
Gabriel Jesus has just been sent off… pic.twitter.com/fcNwp4ulPK
— Man City Report (@cityreport_) July 3, 2021
Gabriel Jesus trying to recreate the Bundesliga logo pic.twitter.com/n3IeqmXEgW
— ‘Madridiot’❼ (@DonMadridiot) July 3, 2021
Jesus’ challenge was eerily similar to the finishing move used by two-time WWE champion Drew McIntyre, who reacted on social media.
— Drew McIntyre (@DMcIntyreWWE) July 3, 2021
Mena was writhing around on the floor in agony and Jesus was promptly sent off. It was one of the easiest decisions in referee Patricio Loustau’s career, with a VAR check not needed whatsoever.
After 10-man Brazil saw the game out in Rio de Janeiro, Jesus apologised to his teammates and to Mena.
“Unfortunately I made a mistake in which the team could have suffered, but this group once again showed strength,” Jesus wrote on Twitter.
“I apologise to my teammates and I will always continue to try to learn from my mistakes. I’m relieved to hear that Mena is fine and we’ve already talked about it.
“Again, this group is gigantic! We go to the semi!”
Classificados! Infelizmente cometi um erro no qual a equipe poderia ter se prejudicado, mas este grupo mostrou força. Peço desculpas aos meus companheiros e seguirei sempre buscando aprender com erros. Aliviado em saber que o Mena está bem. Seguimos para a semi! 💪🏾🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/vfUSgkRFuq
— Gabriel Jesus (@gabrieljesus9) July 3, 2021
Brazil will now take on Peru in the semi-finals on Tuesday, though Jesus will have to watch from the stands as he serves a one-game suspension.
Featured Image Credit: TNS Sports