In a strange turn of events that demonstrate exactly how referees earn their money, Brasilian side Flamengo were awarded a penalty in perhaps the strangest set of circumstances you'll see in a long time.

The league match between Brasileiro Serie A teams Flamengo and Cricuima was destined for a draw, but a late spot-kick from Flamengo forward Gabriel Barbosa settled the game 2-1 in the host's favour.

A late penalty is dramatic in any normal situation, but the drama goes through the roof when it's awarded in as bizarre a circumstances as this.

With Flamengo player Cebolinha receiving a wonderful threaded ball to put him through on goal, Criciuma's Barreto put in a challenge to stop the play – not with his body, but a SECOND BALL on the pitch.

Eder side-footed a second ball that had made its way onto the pitch, knocking it into the live ball Cebolinha was about to take a swipe at, and out of play.

Referee Maguielson Lima Barbosa did not hesitate in blowing his whistle, and awarded Flamengo a spot-kick in the game's death. 

Barreto, meanwhile, received a yellow, presumable for unsportsmanlike conduct, or some other stipulation around unlawfully impeding play. 

It remains unclear, however, which code the Brasilian ref may have cited in his post-match report at Flamengo's home, Mane Garrincha.

It's not the first time in recent memory has an external force stopped play in a Brasilian football match.

Back in 2022, a police dog invaded the pitch in Brasilian state championship final and hilariously runs off with ball in its mouth.

Still, the defining moment two balls were better than one is surely handed to the iconic Premier League moment Darren Bent scored a penalty that ricocheted off a beach ball, against Liverpool in 2009.