Brazilian Serie A wrap: Bahia edge Avai, Santos fall

Bahia claimed a 3-2 win over Avai FC in their Brazil Serie A clash on Saturday, which ended with both sides having a man sent off.

Bahia went into the interval with a 1-0 advantage courtesy of Junior Pipoca’s opener, but the veteran striker soon turned villain as he conceded an equalising own-goal for visiting Avai.

Pedro Ken then fired Joel Santana’s Avai ahead on 53 minutes as the lowly club looked to fight their way out of the relegation zone.

But Pipoca popped up again late to make up for his earlier error by equalising for his own team, this time in the 78th minute.

Lulinha then scored the winner two minutes later to send Bahia five points clear of the drop, condemning Avai to 19th spot on the table.

Toninho Cecilio’s side are seven points and considerable goal difference from safety.

Fluminense claimed a thrilling 3-2 triumph over Santos, with Marcio Rozario scoring a 95th-minute winner at the Estadio Olimpico Joao Havelange.

Earlier, Santos led when star striker Neymar scored in the 32nd minute, but replies from Marquinho and Rafael Sobis saw Fluminense edge ahead midway through the second half.

Wason Renteria then seemingly snatched a point for Santos with his 89th-minute effort, only for Rozario to claim the winner at the death.

Palmeiras and America Mineiro drew 1-1, leaving Luiz Felipe Scolari’s men in eighth position, while America are rooted to the bottom of the table, some nine points from relegation safety.