Former Striker Haunts São Paulo as Ceni Breaks 12-Match Jinx in Brasileirão Clash

São Paulo fell 2-1 to Bahia in a pivotal Brasileirão match on May 31, 2025, at Salvador’s Arena Fonte Nova, with ex-São Paulo striker Willian José delivering both goals for the hosts.

The victory marked Bahia coach Rogério Ceni’s first-ever win against his former club after 11 failed attempts across nine losses and two draws.

Willian José’s second-half header (52’) and penalty (72’) sealed the result, overshadowing Luciano’s late penalty (85’) for São Paulo.

The 33-year-old striker, who scored just twice for São Paulo during his 2011-2012 stint, now has three goals in his last four matches against them.

Ceni, a São Paulo legend as a player, leveraged tactical adjustments—starting winger Ademir for pace—to exploit defensive gaps left by São Paulo’s suspended coach Luis Zubeldía.

Former Striker Haunts São Paulo as Ceni Breaks 12-Match Jinx in Brasileirão Clash

São Paulo goalkeeper Rafael kept the scoreline respectable with six saves, including a first-half denial of Willian José’s close-range header.

The defeat leaves São Paulo 13th with 12 points, three above relegation-threatened Vitória. Bahia climbs to fifth with 18 points, reigniting hopes for continental qualification.

Ceni’s breakthrough came amid mounting pressure: his previous clashes with São Paulo included a 2023 Copa do Brasil elimination with Flamengo.

The win also carries financial stakes—Bahia’s rise strengthens their commercial appeal, while São Paulo’s mid-table stagnation risks alienating sponsors.

Both teams resume play on June 12, with Bahia facing league leaders Bragantino and São Paulo hosting Vasco da Gama.