The first Majestoso of the 2026 Brasileirão ended with Corinthians defeating São Paulo 3-2. The classic clash on Sunday (May 10), which fell on Mother’s Day, heated up on the pitch with referee controversies and player disputes, culminating in a vital result for Fernando Diniz’s side. With the win, they moved out of the relegation zone, aided by Grêmio’s loss to Flamengo. Raniele, Matheuzinho, and Breno Bidon scored for Corinthians, while Luciano and an own goal from Matheuzinho accounted for São Paulo’s goals. Despite São Paulo sitting fourth in the table with 24 points, coach Roger Machado now faces increased pressure.
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In a first half marked by cautious play and late refereeing controversies, Corinthians took the lead with a header from Raniele off a corner kick. They created the better chances, forcing strong saves from São Paulo’s goalkeeper Rafael. São Paulo struggled offensively, only threatening with a Ferreirinha shot saved by Hugo Souza. However, they equalized by pressing Corinthians’ build-up play: Bobadilla stole the ball from Raniele inside the box and set up Luciano, who simply tapped it in.
Corinthians dominated the second half, quickly regaining the lead with two goals at the start of the period. Matheuzinho scored a brilliant solo effort, and Breno Bidon added a stunning placed shot, giving the Timão a two-goal cushion. São Paulo attempted a comeback but were largely ineffective, rarely troubling Hugo Souza. The Tricolor pulled one back through an own goal by Matheuzinho, but it wasn’t enough to level the score.
Despite Corinthians’ other goals, Matheuzinho’s strike early in the second half was crucial for Fernando Diniz’s team to secure the win. After a competitive first half where Corinthians held a slight edge with clearer chances, the second-half start was vital for setting the tempo. The favorable scenario swung Corinthians’ way: the right-back surged down the right flank, cut past a slipping Ferreirinha, and had time to adjust his right foot, hitting a beautiful high shot that left Rafael no chance.
Rodrigo Garro, with two assists, was once again decisive for Corinthians. He took the corner for Raniele’s goal and set up Breno Bidon’s superb curler early in the second half. The number 8 received applause from the fans as he was substituted near the end, continuing his excellent form since Fernando Diniz took over as coach.
Right-back Cédric Soares struggled at the Neo Química Arena, replacing the injured Lucas Ramon. The Portuguese defender failed to provide width to São Paulo’s right flank and rarely managed to get to the byline.
