Stalemate in Santos.
Santos and Corinthians played out a goalless draw on Wednesday night in a result that neither wanted and does neither of them any good.
Santos give up a precious home game with just a point earned while Corinthians exhaust their game in hand over Flamengo and sit tied with them on points but behind on goal difference.
A damp squib that was a poor re-enactment of the 2011 Paulista final that saw Santos triumph over Corinthians. In truth, with a midweek game like this scheduled on the same night as a friendly meant that several key players were missing.
Ganso and Neymar were, as usual missing for Santos, on national duty for Brazil. The national team's 2-3 loss to Germany also saw Corinthians midfielder Ralf start the game with the number 5 shirt. Moreover with Brazil beating Saudi Arabia 3-0 in the U-20 World Cup, Danilo from Santos was absent as well.
Corinthians, despite being the away team, started positively before Santos came into the game some more. Elano began pulling strings in the midfield, with Arouca and Borges looking dangerous. However Corinthians held firm and with Liedson absent, were unable to make much headway themselves. Elano went off after picking up a 73rd minute yellow card while Santos captain Edu Dracena picked up a booking in injury time as well. Brazilian born and raised Qatari striker Emerson looked lively but was unable to break the deadlock while Paulinho and Willian had off days for Tite's side as well.
Corinthians are tied atop the standings with 33 points but trail Flamengo on goal difference.
Santos remain 14th and have just two games in hand on those around them in the table. It appears the 2011 Copa Libertadores winners will finish in lower mid table.
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