By Robbie Blakeley, Senior Contributing Reporter
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Botafogo went back top of the 2013 Brasileirão yesterday after comfortably defeating Portuguesa 3-1 at the Arena Canindé in São Paulo. The Alvinegro were the stronger side throughout but only managed to break the deadlock in the second half, following a heated discussion between Clarence Seedorf and Gilberto in the opening 45 minutes.
Botafogo coach Oswaldo de Oliveira was sent off at half-time for aggressive behavior towards the referee. Oliveira entered the field of play to complain about a penalty he felt his side should have been awarded.
In the end it mattered little. Defender Bolívar headed Fogão into the lead on 65 minutes, connecting powerfully with Seedorf‘s inswinging corner. Portuguesa responded immediately and goalkeeper Jefferson was forced into two smart saves.
However, he could not avoid an eventual equalizer as Luis Ricardo glanced in Correa’s corner at the near post. Nevertheless, Portuguesa were level for less than 60 seconds.
Gilberto crossed from the right and striker Rafael Marques expertly took the ball under control before smashing a shot past a flailing Lauro. Botafogo grew in confidence and went after a third goal to kill the game.
It arrived thirteen minutes from time. Seedorf shrugged off two markers before en excellent reverse ball found Elias to round off the victory.
Elsewhere, Flamengo were held to a goalless draw by São Paulo at the Estádio Mané Garrincha in Brasília. The Paulistas had the better of the game and were unlucky not to take all three points when Jadson missed a late penalty.
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