SAO PAULO (Interstat) — Paulista and Botafogo played to a 2-2 draw Sunday in a Carioca Série A match at Neo Química Arena. The result defied pregame projections that heavily favored the visitors.

Substitutes made the difference, with Cuiabano and Jordan Barrera each scoring second-half goals for Botafogo. Paulista’s goals came from defenders Raniele and Gustavo Henrique. The match turned chaotic in stoppage time, culminating in a red card shown to Botafogo’s Jeffinho in the 90+3rd minute. The physical contest featured seven yellow cards. Both teams remain unbeaten with a draw to start their campaigns in the competition.