Chaos at the Copa Libertadores final! Botafogo down to 10 men as horrific challenge after 30 seconds sees Gregore sent off for kicking opponent in head

With approximately 30 seconds on the clock of the 2024 Copa Libertadores final between Atletico Mineiro and Botafogo, Gregore's high boot caught the head of Fausto Vera - drawing blood from the dazed player. The referee then sent off Gregore in the second minute in a whirlwind start to the game.

Despite being a man down for the vast majority of the contest, Botafogo won their first-ever Copa Libertadores with a remarkable 3-1 win at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. First-half goals from Luiz Henrique and an Alex Telles penalty put Botafogo two up before Eduardo Vargas pulled a goal back just after the break for Atletico. Despite being dominated for much of the contest, Junior Santos scored in the 97th minute to cap off a stunning triumph.

Atletico had 22 shots on goal to Botafogo's eight and had a whopping 80 per cent possession but the 2013 winners could not break down their stubborn opponents as a second title eluded them.

Both Botafogo and Atletico still have plenty to play for after this match as the former are top of the Brazilian Serie A heading into the final stretch of the campaign. And the latter can still qualify for next season's Copa Libertadores.