Copa Libertadores champion Botafogo had another big reason to celebrate Sunday as the club owned by American businessman John Textor beat Sao Paulo 2-1 to win its first Brazilian league title since 1995.
Botafogo won the title for the third time with 79 points in 38 matches to finish six points ahead of runner-up Palmeiras.
Jefferson Savarino scored the first goal for host Botafogo in the 37th minute at the Nilton Santos Stadium, but a defensive mistake allowed an under-strength Sao Paulo side to equalize in the 63rd through William Gomes.
Botafogo clinched a historic double, winning the Brazilian league for the first time in 29 years, just one week after their Copa Libertadores triumph. Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images
Gregore netted the winner in injury time for the Rio de Janeiro team. The same player was sent off after a first-minute foul in the Copa Libertadores final against Atletico Mineiro.
Botafogo overcame that difficulty to beat their countrymen 3-1 and lift its first South American crown on Nov. 30. That earned Botafogo a spot in the Club World Cup in the United States next year.
Palmeiras, the last rival standing between Botafogo and the trophy, lost 1-0 at home to Fluminense, which managed to avoid relegation and send Athletico Paranaense to the second division instead. Kevin Serna scored in the 37th minute.
