O golaço que salvou o São Paulo nos acréscimos | OneFootball

São Paulo’s rotated side salvaged a 2-2 draw away at Sport after falling two goals behind, showing resilience amid a demanding week, according to Arquibancada Tricolor.

With their focus divided by a looming continental clash, manager Hernán Crespo fielded a heavily altered lineup at Ilha do Retiro on Saturday, prioritizing squad rotation ahead of a decisive Libertadores tie on Tuesday. Several senior players were rested or unavailable due to injury, increasing reliance on younger talents.

Sport capitalized on São Paulo’s makeshift lineup almost immediately. In just the fourth minute, a mistake by debutant goalkeeper Young handed the hosts an early lead. The setback rattled the visitors, and their situation grew more precarious early in the second half when Derik Lacerda’s header doubled Sport’s advantage.

Crespo responded with a raft of substitutions after the interval, introducing experienced names and seeking attacking impetus. The changes saw Lucas Moura—himself given a partial rest—enter the fray and swiftly make an impact. The winger rose to head home from a corner on 65 minutes, halving the deficit and breathing life into São Paulo’s challenge.

The breakthrough gave the visitors renewed belief, and pressure intensified as the match wore on. Substitute Maik, starting at right-back, delivered the decisive moment deep in stoppage time. Gathering possession at the top of the area, he drilled home from range to notch his first goal for the senior side and secure a point. Afterward, Maik described his emotions: “I’m very happy. My first professional goal—just so thankful to God, my family, and my teammates for helping me get here. Now it’s back to focus for the big match on Tuesday.”

Despite the comeback, goalkeeper Young—who received a 5.8 rating from fans—remained in the spotlight for his early error. Crespo addressed the situation post-game, stating: “There’s no special conversation. Everyone makes mistakes, young or old. We’re here to err and move forward, try again. No one is a phenomenon or a fool—it’s about trusting in each player’s qualities.”

Statistically, São Paulo’s next wave of talent played a central role. Besides Maik, Rodriguinho (7.3) and Ferraresi (7.3) were among those receiving high approval from fans; Lucas Moura led all ratings with a 9.0. Meanwhile, forwards Gonzalo Tapia and Juan Dinenno struggled, as reflected in their lower marks.

The draw keeps São Paulo in sixth position, now on 29 points, with seven wins, eight draws, and five defeats—24 goals scored, 22 conceded. With the league returning next weekend, immediate attention turns to the decisive Libertadores fixture, where Crespo will hope the blend of youthful hunger and experienced quality continues to serve his side well.