Going into to today’s final game Santos had a 1 point advantage over Atlético-PR. So a win would assure them victory and clinch the Brazilian championship. And the safe return of Robinho’s mother would mean that Robinho would be fit to play in what would possibly be his final Santos game.
So as Luxemburg’s men lined up against Vasco they knew only victory would make them Champions. The fans were not disappointed in an excellent first half which gave Santos a two goal advantage with a excellent strike from Ricardinho after 5 mins and a Elano header.
In the second half Santos mainly came out to kill time. Knowing that there victory was close. But Vasco planned on spoiling the party and 16 mins into the second half Marco Brito passed two defenders to get one back for Vasco. But Santos were clearly in control passing the ball about, never venturing forward until the referee blew the whistle to declare them Champions.
Only Robinho scoring could have made the fairy tale more complete, But for the fans the celebrations would never stop. Santos are champions giving Wanderley Luxemburg his second championship in two years with two different clubs.
They also earned the record of most goals scored in a championship at 103 beating last seasons champions Cruzeiro record of a 102.
Elsewhere at the bottom of the table there were some big teams trying to avoid relegation. The Rio teams have for the most part had a torrid season Flamengo and Botafogo have both ventured in and out of the relegation places.
Flamengo faced last years champions Cruzeiro who have looked a shadow of last seasons side. And for Flamengo it turn into a goal fest finishing 6-2 and securing the future of Brazil’s biggest club. A draw for Botafogo was good enough for them to remain up.
Criciúma 3 x 3 Coritiba
Internacional 2 x 1 Paraná Beira
Flamengo 6 x 2 Cruzeiro
Fluminense 1 x 1 Palmeiras
Vitória 1 x 2 Ponte Preta
Goiás 2 x 0 São Paulo
Guarani 2 x 0 Grêmio
Atlético-MG 3 x 0 São Caetano Mineirão
Santos 2 x 1 Vasco
Atlético-PR 1 x 1 Botafogo-RJ
Juventude 1 x 2 Paysandu
