Brazil Serie A wrap: Fluminense extend lead

Fluminense extended their lead at the summit of the Brazilian Serie A, while third-placed Gremio could only manage a draw on Sunday.

In a physical encounter that saw eight yellow cards shown and a red to Ramon, league leaders Fluminense registered a 1-0 win at 10-man Flamengo.

Former Lyon striker Fred opened the scoring on 18 minutes and it proved the match winner as Fluminense opened up a six-point lead ahead of Atletico Mineiro.

Vanderlei Luxemburgo’s Gremio were held to a 1-1 draw at home to Santos.

Defender Werley gave hosts the lead after 34 minutes and their bid for victory was given a boost eight minutes into the second half when Brazilian international Neymar was given his marching orders for two yellow cards in as many minutes.

However, despite their numerical advantage, Gremio conceded an equaliser five minutes later as Bruno Rodrigo found the back of the net.

And Gremio also ended the match with 10 men after substitute Leo Gago was shown a red card deep into injury time.

In other results on Sunday, Corinthians netted three second half goals to beat Sport Recife 3-0.

Following a scoreless opening 45 minutes, Romarinho bagged a brace, while Paulinho added a goal of his own to guide the hosts to their third win in five league outings.

Bahia left Botafogo searching for their first win in four games after they ran out 2-0 winners, while the 10 men of Sao Paulo salvaged a 1-1 draw against lowly Coritiba, who move two points clear of the relegation zone.