Corinthians managed to continue their climb up the table after a 1-0 win over Cruzeiro on Wednesday. This was a very important victory given that their opposition were prior to the match. A defeat for even two dropped points would have put Corinthians at a serious disadvantage for the title. However, now they can hope towards maintaining their place near the top of the table. Paolo Guerrero scored the only goal of the game in the 68th minute to give Corinthians the victory. This was also the second consecutive victory for Corinthians, who have 16 points on the board of the nine matches.

As a result of this victory, Mano Menezes’ team now moved level on points with Fluminense and São Paulo. Internacional are not too far behind and are also on the same number of points. Since Corinthians did not have much injury problems apart from the absence of goalkeeper Cassio, Mano Menezes named a similar starting line-up apart from the goalkeeper change. Walter, who was named in the Corinthians goal, made some crucial saves in the first of to deny the opposition. Corinthians also had several opportunities to break the deadlock in the first half, but were guilty of some poor finishing.

In the second half, the goal proved very crucial, as Corinthians held on for three points. The defeat for Cruzeiro is vitally important not only for Corinthians but also for the entire Brazilian league, as they had already opened a three-point advantage after just nine matches. A victory for them in this match would have almost put them out of touching distance. The top of the Brazilian championship is proving to be an intriguing title race this season. Most of the top clubs are in with the chance to win the title at the end of the season.