Luciano penalty gives Sao Paulo 2-1 win over Santos

SAO PAULO : A second-half penalty from Luciano Neves gave Sao Paulo a 2-1 win over Santos on Monday and maintained their good start to the Brazilian league season.

The win against their state rivals lifted them into fifth place in Brazil's Serie A on seven points, two behind leaders Corinthians. Santos, who suffered their first league defeat of the season, are also on seven points.

Jonathan Calleri put Sao Paulo in front with a header after 10 minutes, the Argentine striker recording his fifth goal in four league matches.

Marcos Leonardo levelled for Santos on the stroke of half time before Luciano scored from the spot with eight minutes remaining to seal all three points for Sao Paulo.