Sao Paulo suffer Alex blow

Sao Paulo's challenge for the Campeonato Brasileiro title has been hit by a serious injury to Alex Silva.

The defender will undergo surgery after tearing cruciate ligaments in his right knee and will be sidelined for around six months.

Alex will also miss Brazil's upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Peru and Uruguay with national coach Dunga set to name his squad on Wednesday.

Striker Dagoberto, who has also suffered knee problems in the past, offered his sympathy to his Sao Paulo team-mate.

"He is a lovely person, a happy guy who motivates everybody," said Dagoberto.

"Now it's time for him to stay calm, be with his family. We'll support him because he is a very good friend."

Sao Paulo can secure the league title on Thursday (AEST) if they pick up a point against already-relegated America.