Inter are equal on 17 points with Atletico Mineiro, who lost their unbeaten record in a 4-2 upset by promoted Barueri, although they have an inferior goal difference.
Inter, who had lost their previous three matches in all competitions and not won in six, rested several key players for Wednesday's second leg of the Copa Brasil against Corinthians, in which they are 2-0 down.
Bolanos, formerly with 2008 Libertadores Cup winners LDU of Ecuador, opened the scoring 18 minutes into the second half of Sunday's match after beating three defenders.
"I've been looking for opportunities (to play) and it's very good to score goals," Bolanos told reporters. "I'm grateful to (coach) Tite for the chance to play."
Palmeiras, in their first match since coach Vandeleri Luxemburgo was sacked earlier in the weekend, drew 1-1 at home with Santos in a regional "classic".
They went ahead through striker Obina, playing in place of Keirrison whose removal from the squad during transfer talks with Barcelona sparked the row between Luxemburgo and the Palmeiras management that led to the coach's sacking.
Adriano's Flamengo drew 0-0 with Fluminense at the Maracana in a Rio de Janeiro derby.
