São Paulo falls to Athletico-PR 2-1; defender Rafael Toloi injured

São Paulo was defeated 2‑1 by Athletico‑Paraná on 22 July 2026 at the Cícero de Souza Marques stadium in Bragança Paulista, after a quick five‑minute second‑half comeback by Leozinho. The win moved Athletico‑PR to third place with 33 points, while São Paulo remained ninth with 25 points, extending a six‑match winless streak.

During the match defender Rafael Toloi suffered a strained right‑hamstring and was forced to leave the field. Medical examinations confirmed the injury, ruling him out of São Paulo's next league fixture against Flamengo at the Maracanã on 26 July. The club announced additional absences (e.g., Lucas Moura) and noted that players Wendell and Luciano returned from suspension.

Coach Dorival Júnior highlighted the team's loss of focus in the critical five‑minute period and warned that such lapses could jeopardise the club’s bid for a Libertadores spot. Preparations for the Flamengo match included intensified training sessions, tactical drills and set‑piece work, while the squad awaits further defensive reinforcements.