Gazeta Esportiva.com
·22 de janeiro de 2026
Sampaoli and Valentim explain clash in América-MG v Atlético-MG derby

In partnership with
Yahoo sportsGazeta Esportiva.com
·22 de janeiro de 2026

The classic match between América-MG and Atlético-MG, played this Wednesday at Independência, ended in a 1-1 draw and saw tempers flare outside the four lines. During the halftime of the match, valid for the fourth round of the Mineiro, coaches Jorge Sampaoli and Alberto Valentim engaged in a heated argument on the sidelines.
See also: All the news from Gazeta Esportiva Gazeta Esportiva's YouTube Channel Follow Gazeta Esportiva on Instagram
The scene, which required intervention from the technical staff, included an exchange of insults and gestures where Valentim appeared to mock the Argentine coach's height. The spark for the fight was the annulment of a Galo goal by VAR still in the first half, a decision that infuriated Sampaoli.
After the whistle for halftime, the alvinegro coach went to demand explanations and ended up arguing with his colleague. “It was just part of the game, nothing more,” said Sampaoli, downplaying the clash.
On the Coelho's side, Alberto Valentim also avoided prolonging the controversy. The coach highlighted that he had nothing to say about Sampaoli's behavior. “I have nothing to say on this matter,” he confirmed.
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.







































