Gabriel Jesus has apologised for a moment of madness in Brazil's Copa America victory over Chile, with the striker shown a straight red card for a karate-style kick on Eugenio Mena.
Brazil were leading 1-0 when the Manchester City forward made the horror tackle in the 48th minute and Argentine referee Particio Loustau immediately brandished a red card.
Mena was going up for a header when Jesus flew in with a high boot, which caught the defender just under his face.
There was no doubt the challenge was worth of a red card, with Mena left in agony on the floor.
But Chile were unable to make the extra-man count with Brazil holding on for a 1-0 victory after Lucas Paqueta's goal in the 46th minute.
Jesus will be banned for Tuesday's semi-final with Peru but he could return for the final if Tite's men progress.
The striker took to social media to apologise for his reckless challenge and said he had spoken to Mena after the game.
He wrote on Twitter: 'Unfortunately I made a mistake in which the team could have suffered, but this group once again showed strength.
'I apologise to my teammates and I will always continue to try to learn from my mistakes. I'm relieved to hear that Mena is fine and we've already talked about it.
'Again, this group is gigantic! We go to the semi!'
He also wrote on Instagram: 'Nothing lasts forever, neither pains nor joys. Everything in life is learning. Everything in life surpasses itself.'
The tackle was similar to Nigel de Jong's kung-fu kick on Xabi Alonso in the 2010 World Cup final.
The Holland midfielder famously avoided being sent off by English referee Howard Webb, who only showed a yellow card. De Jong's side were beaten 1-0 by Spain after extra-time.
