Confusion reigned at the Mineirāo on Sunday in the first game at the stadium since the state legislature lifted the ban on the sale of alcohol inside football grounds.
Perhaps envious of one of the few areas in which British law is far more ridiculous than its Brazilian equivalent, the Minas state government opted to copy the UK in allowing the sale of alcohol but not allowing it to be consumed within sight of the pitch.
This created confusion during Cruzeiro’s match with Palmeiras, with many supporters ignoring the legislation, sneaking past stewards with drinks in hand, or else ignorant of the actual rules, with a lack of signage and direction to blame.
There was also confusion over who was responsible for applying a fine to anyone caught breaking the rules, with both the police and stadium authorities unwilling to take on the task.
