A light-hearted exchange between Atlético-MG goalkeeper Everson, Botafogo captain Marçal and referee Lucas Casagrande took place before Botafogo’s 1-0 win over Atlético-MG on Wednesday in the 34th round of the 2026 Brasileirão.
Because Everson was Atlético-MG’s captain and a goalkeeper, Casagrande asked the team to nominate an outfield player for the match protocol, which provides for only the captain to speak with the referee. The official then asked Everson whether Bernard had stayed behind to talk with him.
“No, Scarpa. Bernard didn’t even come,” Everson replied, prompting laughter among those present.
During the coin toss, Marçal initially chose the white side, leaving blue for Everson. The Atlético-MG goalkeeper asked whether Marçal wanted to take blue instead. Marçal appeared to understand the joke’s reference to Cruzeiro’s predominant color and chose blue.
Atlético-MG started with a much-changed lineup. Coach Eduardo Domínguez selected an alternative side, while the regular starters remained in Belo Horizonte to prepare for the Copa do Brasil match against Grêmio.
Sources: Globo Esporte.