"We have a second round, and it's time for the test, time to show the true picture of Brazil," Lula said.

　　He tried to encourage his supporters for what could be an uphill battle in his runoff against Bolsonaro. "Sometimes the result is unexpected. I was convinced I could get an outright victory," he said, adding, "Tomorrow we start a new campaign. People like me to be in a runoff. I am very good in the knockout stage."

　　"The game is on. We are now in extra time," he said.

　　The next presidential term begins on Jan 5, 2027.

　　Meanwhile, election authorities confirmed that Michelle Bolsonaro, wife of former president Jair Bolsonaro and stepmother of Flavio Bolsonaro, had won a Senate seat in the Federal District, home to the capital, Brasilia. A devout evangelical, the 44-year-old has never previously held public office.

　　In June, Michelle Bolsonaro had a very public falling out with her stepson, whom she accused of disrespecting her in lengthy videos posted on social media. The pair later made up.

　　She has called her candidacy "a mission" entrusted by her husband, who is serving a 27-year sentence under house arrest following his conviction for an attempted coup.

　　XINHUA