Estevao Willian further extended his record-breaking season in the Brasileiro as Palmeiras defeated Atletico Goianiense on Saturday night.
Earlier this month, the future Chelsea arrival made history in Brazil's top flight by becoming the first player below the age of 18 to contribute 20 goals or assists in the division.
In just 27 appearances, the 17-year-old had 12 goals and eight assists to his name, adding to the feeling that he could become the next star to emerge from the country.
Estevao has since spent time with Brazil for their recent World Cup qualifiers, albeit not being used as much as supporters would have anticipated.
Selecao boss Dorival Junior provided the teenager with just 19 minutes of action across games with Venezuela and Uruguay, while he sat out the previous domestic game through suspension.
However, the rest seemingly proved to be a blessing in disguise as Estevao played an influential role in Palmeiras' success over the weekend.
© Imago
How did Palmeiras beat Atletico Goianiense?
At the same time that leaders Botafogo were facing Vitoria, Palmeiras were squaring off against Atletico Goianiense on away territory.
The game was decided by a goal in the 20th minute, Estevao weaving and bustling his way past two defenders before the ball ricocheted in front of him to pull the back for Raphael Veiga.
Having taken a touch, the playmaker swiftly curled a low shot into the bottom corner from inside the area for his 11th goal of the league campaign.
Palmeiras would see out the game at Estadio Antonio Accioly before learning that Botafogo had been held to a 1-1 draw with Vitoria.
Although positives could be taken from an 87th-minute equaliser, Botafogo now sit behind Palmeiras in the Brasileiro table on goal difference.
Both teams will now prepare to square off in what has become a mammoth tussle at Allianz Parque on Wednesday evening.
Darren Plant
