Cruzeiro midfielder Matheus Henrique was diagnosed with a lung contusion on Monday (May 11), after being substituted urgently during his team’s 2-1 victory over Bahia last Saturday. The incident occurred following a strong challenge with Everaldo, where Henrique was struck in the chest and began coughing up blood while receiving medical attention.
What happened: Henrique took a heavy blow to the chest area during the challenge and coughed up blood. The Cruzeiro player had possession of the ball when Bahia’s forward came in forcefully, hitting Henrique with the side of his body. The midfielder immediately fell to the ground clutching his chest, while Everaldo received a yellow card for the tackle.
In an Instagram post on Sunday, Henrique spoke about the injury and criticized the referee: “I asked him if he thought it was normal for a player to cough up blood after a blow to the chest. He sarcastically said it was a normal play and insinuated I was overreacting.”
The contusion was confirmed on Monday following medical exams, and Henrique will be sidelined for an indefinite period. According to Cruzeiro, he did not require surgery and will remain at rest until the injury and localized pain fully heal.
Cruzeiro returns to action on Tuesday against Goiás in the Copa do Brasil. Until the World Cup break, the team will play six matches—likely without their midfielder.