Rio de Janeiro, Nov 10 (IANS) Defending Brazilian Serie A champions Palmeiras suffered a setback in their quest for back-to-back titles when they were held to 1-1 home draw by Corinthians.

Michel Macedo appeared to secure an unexpected victory for Corinthians at the Pacaembu when he fired an unstoppable shot past goalkeeper Weverton in second-half stoppage time late on Saturday, reports Efe news.

But Bruno Henrique salvaged a point for the hosts with a 94th-minute strike after the Corinthians defence failed to deal with a Dudu corner.

Earlier, Corinthians goalkeeper Walter kept out a Gustavo Scarpa penalty attempt following Manoel's handball in the area.

Palmeiras remained second in the 20-team standings on Saturday night, seven points behind leaders Flamengo, who had a game in hand. Corinthians were sixth, 25 points off the pace with six rounds remaining after this weekend.

In Saturday's only other fixture, Venezuelan playmaker Yeferson Soteldo netted a brace as third-placed Santos won 3-0 at Goias.

--IANS kk/dpb