America Mineiro 1-2 Santos
After a goalless first half, Santos took the lead on the hour, when in-form Borges headed in a corner for his 18th goal of the 2011 Brasileirão season. The lead did not last long, however, with America equalising six minutes later through Kempes, who had a simple tap in after Andre Dias’ effort had been blocked.
Santos’ winner came with just over ten minutes remaining. Neymar’s corner was flicked into the path of Edu Dracena, who was left with an easy chance from four yards and made no mistake to secure victory.
Figueirense 1-1 Internacional
Inter’s bid for a Copa Libertadores place took a knock as they dropped points at Figueirense, who drew for the fourth game in succession. The latter opened the scoring five minutes before the interval, with Ygor firing in a powerful effort from just outside the penalty area.
However, the points were shared thanks to a fine finish from former Manchester City striker Jo. A poor headed clearance fell into his path, and the 24-year-old controlled the ball before lashing in with his left foot. The result means that Inter have not lost for six games.
Coritiba 2-1 Cruzeiro
Last season’s Brasileirão runners-up Cruzeiro are now very much struggling in a relegation battle, sitting just four points above the drop zone after defeat at Coritiba left them without a win in six matches.
Marcos Aurelio took advantage of a goalkeeping error to give Coritiba the lead with some quick thinking on 23 minutes, and Bill doubled their advantage after 59 minutes when he shook off his marker and fired in with his left foot. Cruzeiro got one back when Bobo headed in from a corner on 65′, but it wasn’t enough to earn a point.
Bahia 1-0 Atletico Paranaense
Bahia picked up a crucial victory in their relegation dogfight with fellow struggles Atletico PR. With 15 minutes remaining and the score still at 0-0, a draw looked on the cards, but Junior managed to get on the end of a through ball to chip in the winner.
Victory for the hosts allows them to move up to 14th, five points clear of the drop zone. Atletico PR are in trouble, sitting third bottom and four points from safety with 13 games to go.
