There was a moment of showboating followed by several of chaos. Memphis Depay stood with both feet on the ball as Corinthians ticked towards glory in the Paulista A1 final against Palmeiras, sparking a mass brawl that eventually led to a player from each side sent off. The move enraged not only the opposition but also the Brazilian football federation, which responded by suggesting the act was a "provocation to a rival and disrespects the game", one punishable by a yellow card.
"He's got a special talent," said new Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti after giving the 18-year-old a first international start against Ecuador. "He's got character, he's a good person, he's humble, and he seems fine to me, but with a young player we have to be patient and careful."