Botafogo moved back into the Copa Libertadores qualifying places with a 2-1 victory over leaders Corinthians in Brazil's Serie A championship on Monday.

Forward Brenner gave the hosts the lead at Rio's Olympic stadium by prodding in at the far post after a deflected corner kick.

Former Manchester City striker Jo equalized when he deftly controlled a Guilherme Arana pass before firing a low shot into the bottom right corner.

But Igor Rabello restored the hosts' lead by rising above the Corinthians defence to head in Leonardo Valencia's cross.

Botafogo climbed to sixth in the 20-team standings with 47 points from 30 matches while Corinthians saw their lead shrink to six points after defending champions Palmeiras won 3-1 at Gremio on Sunday.

Corinthians, who appeared a sure bet to win the title in August, have picked up just 12 points from their past 11 matches as pressure builds on coach Fabio Carille.

The top six teams at the end of the 38-round season will earn a berth in the 2018 Copa Libertadores, South America's top club competition.

Source:
courtesy of XINHUA NEWS AGENCY

by Xinhua News

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