Gremio move three points clear in Brazil

PORTO ALEGRE, October 24 (Campeonato Brasileiro) - An early goal helped Gremio down Sport Recife 1-0 on Thursday as the team from Porto Alegre moved three points clear at the top of the Campeonato Brasileiro.

Reinaldo scored the only goal a minute into the game as Celso Roth's side picked up all three points despite an under-par performance.

"It doesn't matter how we play in our final games of the season. The only important thing is the result," said Gremio defender Pereira.

Gremio moved up to 59 points, three clear of defending champions Sao Paulo, who came from a goal down to defeat Vitoria 2-1.

Leonardo Silva silenced the Morumbi Stadium in the 14th minute but the hosts levelled the score when Hernanes struck in the 28th minute.

Hugo then headed his side ahead early in the second half to secure the three points for Sao Paulo.

"It will be very difficult to retain our title because we have strong rivals but Sao Paulo have the experience of fighting for championships. That is a key factor," said goalkeeper Rogerio Ceni.

Flamengo are third on 55 points after hammering Coritiba 5-0 in Rio de Janeiro.

Leonardo Moura, Obina, Ibson, Maximiliano Biancucci and Bruno scored for Flamengo as they moved level on points with Palmeiras and Cruzeiro, who are not in action until Saturday.