Alan Kardec scores late winner for Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo: Alan Kardec scored his fifth goal in seven matches as Sao Paulo defeated local rivals Palmeiras 2-1 in Brazil`s Serie A football.

The 25-year-old former Benfica striker netted an 89th-minute winner Sunday after Palmeiras forward Henrique had cancelled out Alexandre Pato`s opener at the Pacaembu stadium. The result lifted Sao Paulo to fifth in the standings with seven wins and five draws from 15 matches. Meanwhile, much maligned striker Fred missed a penalty in Fluminense`s 0-2 loss to Botafogo at the Maracana stadium. Daniel and Pablo Zeballos were on target for the Botafogo. Fred, who retired from international football after scoring just once in Brazil`s disappointing 2014 World Cup campaign, sent his 88th-minute spot-kick wide after Rafael Sobis was brought down by Julio Cesar. In other matches Sunday, Atletico Paranaense held Sport 1-1, Figueirense drew 2-2 with Atletico Mineiro, leaders Cruzeiro beat Santos 3-0, Gremio overcame Criciuma 2-0 and Vitoria drew 0-0 with Chapecoense.