VIDEO; Marcelo accidentally breaks an opponent's leg in horrible incident, leaves the field in tears

Fluminense and Argentinos Juniors played out a 1-1 draw in the first leg of their Copa Libertadores round of 16 clash on Wednesday. The match was marred by a horrific leg break suffered by Luciano Sánchez, which was inadvertently caused by Marcelo.

The Brazilian was attempting a dribble when he planted his left foot on Sánchez's leg, which broke the player's tibia and fibula. The match referee immediately showed Marcelo a red card, while Sánchez was taken off on a stretcher.

Check out the video below (WARNING: Video contains graphic images):

sn🚨ÚLTIMO MOMENTO

🚑 Marcelo lesionó de gravedad a Luciano Sánchez de Argentinos Juniors en la Copa Libertadores.

🟥 El brasileño se fue expulsado, pidiendo perdón y en un mar de lágrimas.

pic.twitter.com/t1sFrM8AeT

— Raúl Orvañanos (@RaulOrvananos) August 1, 2023

Marcelo was visibly upset by the incident and left the pitch in tears. He later took to social media to wish Sánchez all the best in his recovery.

"Today I have had to live through a very difficult moment on the pitch," he tweeted. "I have inadvertently injured a colleague. I want to wish you the best possible recovery, Luciano Sánchez. All the strength in the world!"

The incident sent social media wild, with many fans calling it one of the worst injuries they had ever seen. Some also felt that Marcelo's red card was harsh, as it was clear that he had not intended to hurt Sánchez.

Regardless of the severity of the foul, there is no doubt that this was a sickening injury. Our thoughts are with Luciano Sánchez at this difficult time, and we wish him a speedy recovery.