The 23-year-old impressed as a second-half substitute as Sao Paulo defeated Nautico 2-1 in front of more than 62,000 spectators at Morumbi Stadium - the highest crowd for the year in Brazil's Serie A championship.

"I am so happy. The fans packed the stadium and we managed to win an important match," Ganso said.

"Fortunately I was able to contribute. It was a perfect afternoon. The most important thing was the victory, which has brought as closer to the Copa Libertadores."

With 62 points, Sao Paulo needs only a draw from one of its final two matches to guarantee a berth in South America's most important club competition next year.

Ganso signed with Sao Paulo in September but has been sidelined by a left thigh injury suffered while playing for former club Santos.

The midfielder showed sharp movement and a wide range of passing against Nautico after being introduced as a 56th-minute substitute.