Flamengo became the ninth club to sack their coach in the Brazilian championship when they dismissed Cuca on Thursday.

Flamengo were 11th in the Brazilian championship after Wednesday's 1-1 draw at home to promoted Barueri which sparked protests from fans who chanted "Goodbye Cuca".

"We talked (with Cuca) after the match and again today and we believe it's time for a halt," Flamengo vice-president Kleber Leite told reporters.

"I also thought this was the right path?The team are good and they'll reach (a place in) the Libertadores (Cup)," Cuca said. There are four berths in the South American Libertadores Cup next year to play for, joining Copa Brasil winners Corinthians.

Cuca had been at Flamengo, who signed Adriano in May after the Brazil striker was released by Inter Milan, since January when he took charge of the Rio de Janeiro-based club for the second time in his career.

There have been coaching changes since the start of the championship 2-1/2 months ago at Flamengo's city rivals Fluminense, title holders Sao Paulo, Palmeiras, Santos, Nautico twice, Atletico Paranaense, Sport and Gremio.

Assistant coach and former player Andrade will take charge of the team in a caretaker capacity for Sunday's visit to Santos.