Botafogo wins 1st Brazilian league title since 1995

Football

Copa Libertadores champion Botafogo had another big reason to celebrate Sunday as the club owned by American businessman John Textor beat Sao Paulo 2-1 to win its first Brazilian league title since 1995.

Botafogo won the title for the third time with 79 points in 38 matches to finish six points ahead of runner-up Palmeiras.

Jefferson Savarino scored the first goal for host Botafogo in the 37th minute at the Nilton Santos Stadium, but a defensive mistake allowed an under-strength Sao Paulo side to equalize in the 63rd through William Gomes.

Gregore netted the winner in injury time for the Rio de Janeiro team. The same player was sent off after a first-minute foul in the Copa Libertadores final against Atletico Mineiro.

Botafogo overcame that difficulty to beat their countrymen 3-1 and lift its first South American crown on Nov. 30. That earned Botafogo a spot in the Club World Cup in the United States next year.

Palmeiras, the last rival standing between Botafogo and the trophy, lost 1-0 at home to Fluminense, which managed to avoid relegation and send Athletico Paranaense to the second division instead. Kevin Serna scored in the 37th minute.

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