Sao Paulo, Aug 18 (IANS): Alan Kardec scored his fifth goal in seven matches as Sao Paulo defeated local rivals Palmeiras 2-1 in Brazil's Serie A football.

The 25-year-old former Benfica striker netted an 89th-minute winner Sunday after Palmeiras forward Henrique had cancelled out Alexandre Pato's opener at the Pacaembu stadium.

The result lifted Sao Paulo to fifth in the standings with seven wins and five draws from 15 matches.

Meanwhile, much maligned striker Fred missed a penalty in Fluminense's 0-2 loss to Botafogo at the Maracana stadium. Daniel and Pablo Zeballos were on target for the Botafogo.

Fred, who retired from international football after scoring just once in Brazil's disappointing 2014 World Cup campaign, sent his 88th-minute spot-kick wide after Rafael Sobis was brought down by Julio Cesar.

In other matches Sunday, Atletico Paranaense held Sport 1-1, Figueirense drew 2-2 with Atletico Mineiro, leaders Cruzeiro beat Santos 3-0, Gremio overcame Criciuma 2-0 and Vitoria drew 0-0 with Chapecoense.