Corinthians defender Mar-quinhos lashed out at Tevez after the pair, who were on opposite sides during a practice match, tussled for the ball.

Television pictures showed that 21-year-old Tevez, signed last December for a South American record of 18 million dollars, elbowed Marquinhos as he attempted to hold off a challenge from the defender.

Marquinhos fell to the ground, saw that his nose was bleeding and attacked Tevez with a flurry of punches. The Argentine hit back and the pair continued fighting until the other players rushed in to separate them.

The practice was called off.

Coach Daniel Passarella refused to comment but team supervisor Paulo Angioni said the pair would probably be fined.

Corinthians, who drew their Brazilian championship opener 2-2 at home to Juventude last week, are away to Botafogo on Sunday.

The club has gone on a spending spree since signing a partnership deal with London-based Media Sports Investments last year.