Struggling champions Flamengo, meanwhile, named former Brazil midfielder Silas as their third coach of the season before conceding two goals in stoppage time to lose 2-1 away to Guarani.
Flu lead the championship with 37 points from 17 matches, three points more than Corinthians who beat Vitoria 2-1 in former Brazil striker Ronaldo's first appearance since the World Cup recess.
Flamengo's sixth defeat in 17 matches left them 13th with 21 points, while Sao Paulo are 15th with 19.
Sao Paulo striker Fernandao made it 2-1 with a header before half-time but defender Leandro Euzebio headed Flu's equaliser on the hour.
"The important thing today was to add a point in this delicate moment we're going through. What least matters now is the individual," Ceni told reporters of the six-times Brazilian champions' plight.
"When we're winning and all's well we can even take the luxury of exalting personal records and achievements, but at this moment Sao Paulo need to be united to try and get out of this situation."
Flamengo's executive director and former Brazil international Zico said he was confident Silas could turn the club around.
"He's a trainer from the new generation who has been doing a great job for a long while and can find what we want," Zico said.
"He likes attacking football and that fits well with Flamengo."
