Rio de Janeiro, Aug 25 (IANS): Alexandre Pato struck an 88th-minute winner as Sao Paulo defeated Santos 2-1 in Brazil's Serie A championship.

Paulo Henrique Ganso gave the hosts an early lead at the Morumbi stadium Sunday by hooking an unstoppable left-footed shot over his right shoulder after Alan Kardec's assist, reports Xinhua.

Seventeen-year-old Gabriel appeared to secure a point for Santos when he converted a penalty kick after Rildo was brought down by Alvaro Pereira.

But Pato regained Sao Paulo's lead two minutes later by bundling in from close range after having a first attempt saved.

The result left Sao Paulo second in the standings with 32 points while Santos slipped to 10th, nine points further back.

"We have made a big effort in attack and are managing to score goals. That's what we're here to do," a delighted Pato said after the match.

The former AC Milan striker now has six goals and an assist from 15 matches in Brazil's top-flight this season.

In other fixtures Sunday, Flamengo beat Criciuma 2-0, Fluminense routed Sport 4-0, Gremio overcame Corinthians 2-1, Figueirense won 1-0 at Vitoria, Bahia held Atletico Paranaense 0-0 and Cruzeiro won 1-0 at Goias.