Sao Paulo maintained their hopes alive for a first Brazilian Serie A title since 2008 with 1-0 victory over Atletico Paranense.
Midfielder Maicon struck in the opening minutes at the Morumbi stadium Wednesday and the hosts defended to secure their 14th win of the campaign, reports Xinhua.
The result lifted the six-time champions to second, just seven points behind defending champions Cruzeiro, who lost 0-1 at home to Corinthians.
In Rio de Janeiro, Botafogo slipped to last place in the standings after a 0-1 home loss to Palmeiras.
Henrique struck the winner - his 13 goal of the season - just after halftime as Palmeiras secured their ninth win of the season at the Maracana stadium.
In other matches Wednesday, Coritiba overcame Palmeiras 1-0, Goias drew 2-2 at Vitoria, Gremio beat Sport 2-0 and Flamengo defeated Figueirense 2-1.
