Fortaleza defeats Botafogo-SP to edge closer to second place in Brazil Serie B

Fortaleza beat Botafogo-SP 1‑0 at the Castelão on 28 July 2026, a result that moved the Ceará side nearer to the league's second‑place spot. Botafogo‑SP coach Cláudio Tencati said he was surprised by the tactical changes introduced by Fortaleza’s interim coach Reinan Santos, noting the stronger midfield play that limited his team's options.

The win came as part of the 20th round of Brazil’s Serie B. Criciúma remains top of the table with 40 points, while Juventude climbed to second after a 1‑0 victory over Avaí, reaching 35 points. Other round‑20 results included a 1‑1 draw between Ponte Preta and Athletic, and a 2‑0 win for Atlético‑MG over Goiás. The updated standings reflect a tightly contested promotion race.