The Campeonato Paulista 2013 got underway on Saturday with both São Paulo and Santos in action, of the “Big Four” sides.
São Paulo were up first and ran out comfortable 2-0 winners over Mirassol, courtesy of goals from Luis Fabiano and Jadson.
They were made to work hard for their win by a stubborn visiting side, who included former Manchester United midfielder Rodrigo Possebon in their ranks. São Paulo, though, were rarely troubled, bar one stunning effort from Felipe Lima that rattled the crossbar.
The Paulista giants took the lead early on, after some fine interplay from Ganso and Osvaldo led to the latter crossing for Luis Fabiano to sidefoot home.
In the second half, they were eventually able to their lead as Jádson showed excellent composure to fire home and secure the points for his side.
Later on, Santos were also in action as they secured a 3-1 victory over São Bernardo.
Having opened the scoring early on, as Neymar calmly sidefooted home a well worked opener, Santos found themselves pegged back by their opponents who levelled through Naldinho.
Neymar, though, caused problems throughout and, shortly before half-time caused the dismissal of opposite number Dudu—sent-off following a series of fouls on the attacker.
It took another half an hour, though, for the Peixe to break the deadlock once more and it came courtesy of a goal made in Argentina, as Patito Rodriguéz picked out striker Miralles to coolly finish.
Neymar was not done yet, though, winning a penalty in the final minute to add another goal to his tally on his opening appearance of the 2013 season.
Other results:
- União Barbarense 1-1 XV de Piricicaba
- Linense 2-1 Guarani
- Atlético Sorocaba 1-2 São Caetano
- Penapolense 3-0 Ituano
