Santos Women 1–0 Taubaté Women: Narrow Win Sends Santos Top of Paulista League

Santos, Brazil – July 18, 2026 – Santos Women secured a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Taubaté Women in the Brazilian Paulista Women's League at the Vila Belmiro. A first-half goal from midfielder Amanda Gutierres proved enough to extend Santos' winning streak to four matches and lift them to the summit of the standings.

The match was a test of Santos' title credentials as they faced a Taubaté side known for their organized defense. Despite dominating possession, Santos had to be patient before finding the breakthrough, and they held on under pressure in the second half to claim a vital three points.

Match Report

Santos controlled the early stages, with wide players creating several half-chances. The breakthrough came in the 27th minute when a flowing move involving striker Cristiane and left-back Daniella saw the ball squared to Gutierres, who fired home from 12 yards. Taubaté responded by sitting deeper, and Santos failed to add a second before half-time despite having 65% possession.

The second half saw Taubaté grow into the game. They began to press higher and won a series of set pieces. Santos goalkeeper Luciana was called into action twice, making a smart save from a long-range effort in the 63rd minute and then claiming a dangerous cross under pressure in the 78th. Santos' defense, marshaled by captain Rafaelle, held firm to secure the clean sheet.

Key Moments

• 27' – Amanda Gutierres scores from close range after crisp build-up.
• 51' – Cristiane's header flies just wide from a corner.
• 63' – Luciana saves well to deny Taubaté's Jéssica.
• 88' – Rafaelle clears a goal-bound shot off the line.

Standings Impact

The win takes Santos Women to 28 points from 11 matches, moving them ahead of Corinthians on goal difference at the top of the Paulista Women's League table. Taubaté remain in 8th place with 14 points, still in contention for a playoff spot but needing to improve their away form. Santos' title push gains momentum, and their defensive solidity – now five clean sheets in their last six games – is a key asset.

Santos will look to extend their lead when they face mid-table São Paulo next weekend, while Taubaté host bottom side Portuguesa in a must-win fixture.

The Paulista Women's League continues to provide competitive football, and Santos are shaping up as genuine contenders under coach Thiago Silva.