In a dramatic turn of events during the second round of the Campeonato Brasileiro, São Paulo's head coach Luis Zubeldía was ejected from the match against Atlético-MG at the iconic Mineirão Stadium on Sunday, April 6, 2025. The incident unfolded in the first half, marking a significant moment in the ongoing league campaign.
Zubeldía's frustration boiled over as he confronted referee Ramon Abatti Abel over a controversial foul involving Atlético-MG defender Lyanco. The São Paulo coach was adamant that Lyanco, who was already on a yellow card, deserved a second yellow for a foul on Ferraresi. Instead of receiving the desired call, Zubeldía found himself on the receiving end of two yellow cards, leading to his expulsion.
The situation escalated quickly when Zubeldía clapped sarcastically at the referee after receiving his first yellow card, gesturing towards Lyanco in protest. This act of defiance did not sit well with Abatti Abel, who promptly issued a second yellow card, resulting in Zubeldía’s ejection from the match. Players from São Paulo had to intervene, physically restraining their coach as he attempted to approach the referee once more.
This incident is not an isolated one for Zubeldía, who has a history of confrontations with officiating crews. In 2024 alone, he accumulated 19 yellow cards, and as of this season, he already had seven prior to this match. His passionate demeanor and fiery temperament have often put him at odds with referees, and this latest incident is a testament to his intense commitment to his team's performance.
Despite the turmoil caused by Zubeldía’s expulsion, the match itself ended in a goalless draw, as both teams struggled to find the back of the net. The result left many fans and analysts pondering the implications for São Paulo's season, especially with Zubeldía's disciplinary record now under scrutiny.
In the aftermath, players and coaching staff from São Paulo expressed mixed feelings about the match. Midfielder Caio Dominguez commented on the performance, stating, "It was a good draw, considering our overall performance." This sentiment reflects the team’s acknowledgment of the challenges they faced during the match, particularly in the absence of their head coach.
The match showcased the fierce competitive spirit of both teams, yet the focus quickly shifted to the disciplinary actions taken against Zubeldía. As one of the more colorful figures in Brazilian football, his actions have sparked conversations about the boundaries of coaching conduct and the pressures of high-stakes matches.
Looking ahead, Zubeldía’s absence could have significant ramifications for São Paulo. The coach's fiery approach has been both a boon and a bane for the team, and his latest ejection raises questions about how the squad will adapt in his absence. With the next match on the horizon, the team will need to rally together and find a way to maintain their momentum without their leader on the sidelines.
As the season progresses, fans will undoubtedly keep a close eye on Zubeldía's disciplinary record and its impact on the team's performance. The Brazilian league is known for its intensity, and with stakes as high as they are, every decision—both on and off the pitch—can make a significant difference.
In conclusion, Luis Zubeldía's expulsion from the match against Atlético-MG is a clear indicator of the passionate nature of Brazilian football. As the league continues, it will be interesting to see how both he and São Paulo navigate the challenges ahead, particularly in maintaining discipline while striving for success in the Campeonato Brasileiro.
