dThe Brazilian striker Hulk was engaged in a seemingly sincere conversation with Uruguayan judge Esteban Ostudicci in preparation for a penalty shootout between Atritico Mineiro and Atritico Bucaramanga in the 16-year-old Copa Sudamelicana round. The initial tension seemed to be eased as both men waved and approved the gesture, creating an atmosphere of reconciliation.
This moment of reconciliation took an unexpected turn when Ostodicz suddenly produced a yellow card and warned the Hulk right after a handshake. The Atritico Mineiro captain reacted with visible mistrust and frustration, and his confusion was amplified by the timing of sanctions following their positive interactions.
Atltico Mineiro ultimately made a 3-1 advance in penalties, but the case sparked widespread debate about judgement powers and consistency. Analysts questioned whether the cards were the result of delayed disciplinary action or unconventional interpretations of tournament regulations. This booking has a competitive meaning as accumulated yellow cards could potentially halt the Hulk from future knockout matches.
The Hulk (Givanildo Vieira de Sousa) returned to Brazilian football overseas for 16 years, despite offers from clubs in Europe and Asia. His homecoming followed successful spells at Porto (75 goals), Zenit St. Petersburg (77 goals), and Shanghai SIPG (79 goals), and founded him as a globally experienced attacker.
At Atltico Mineiro, Hulk rewrites the club’s record book, becoming the highest scorer ever in the Continental tournament (16 Libertadores goals), and scored 129 goals in 258 appearances. He achieved historic “double” in 2021, with Brasileiro and Copa both as Brazilian champions and top scorers, winning five consecutive Campenato Mineiro titles (2021-2025). A local theatre that serves as a preseason and is played regionally.
This episode highlights Hulk’s competitive duality, a prolific leader capable of both match-winning glow and emotionally recharged responses. As Atritico Mineiro progresses to face Godoy Cruz in the quarter-finals, his presence remains important, but the unresolved disciplinary ambiguity serves as a reminder of the unpredictable human elements of football.
