Brazilian Serie A wrap: Sao Paulo win, Corinthians slip

Sao Paulo moved to within two points of top in the Brazilian Serie A after a 2-1 win over Avai, while America Mineiro shocked Fluminense.

Attacker Cicero hit a double in a five-minute spell on Sunday to see Sao Paulo consolidate third spot and move within two points of first-placed Flamengo.

William had put Avai ahead on the hour mark before Cicero struck twice to have them ahead with 20 minutes to play.

Elsewhere, bottom-placed America Mineiro surprised Fluminense in a comfortable 3-0 victory.

Rodriguinho, Alessandro and Marcos Rocha got on the scoresheet as ninth-placed Fluminense had Gum sent off in the second half.

Botafogo thrashed Vasco da Gama 4-0 thanks to a brace from striker Sebastian Abreu.

The veteran Uruguayan journeyman netted twice, in between goals from Antonio Carlos and German Herrera.

A 32nd-minute goal from forward Borges helped Santos out of the relegation zone in their 1-0 win at home to Ceara.

Corinthians missed their chance to move back into top spot after Alex’s penalty was cancelled out by Santana in a 1-1 draw at Atletico Paranense.

In the other games, Internacional were 3-2 winners at home to Cruzeiro, while Fahel hit the winner in Bahia’s 2-1 win over Atletico Goianiense.