Santos lost ground in the race for a place in next season’s Libertadores on Monday, falling 2-1 to Red Bull Bragantino at the Cícero de Souza Marques stadium in Bragança Paulista. The result opened the 34th round of the Brasileirão and lifted Bragantino above Santos in the standings.
Bragantino took the lead in the fourth minute when Rodinei headed Ryan’s cross into his own goal. Santos equalised in the 36th minute: Philippe Coutinho combined with Gabigol near the edge of the box, moved past a defender and placed his shot beyond goalkeeper Tiago Volpi.
The hosts restored their advantage four minutes later. Henry Mosquera crossed from the left, and Wallace Yan beat Barreal in the air to head past Diógenes. Bragantino held on despite late pressure from Santos, with Volpi making a key save to deny Rony. Santos also appealed for a possible penalty involving Rony, but referee Edina Alves and the VAR did not award one.
Bragantino now sit eighth and Santos ninth, with both teams on 47 points. Bragantino are ahead on wins, 13 to 12. They are seven points behind the current fifth-placed side, Athletico-PR, with the other contenders still to play in the round.
Neither team plays again before the international break. Santos visit Coritiba on November 18, while Bragantino travel to face Vitória the following day.
Sources: CNN Brasil.