By Robbie Blakeley, Senior Contributing Reporter
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – The 20th round of the 2012 Campeonato Brasileiro got underway last night as the campaigns inward stretch began. Two Carioca clubs were in action but unfortunately neither left victorious.
At Rio’s Engenhão Stadium, Fluminense drew with Corinthians, the current Brasileirão and Libertadores champions 1-1. Flu began the game better and the in-form Wágner forced Cassio into a smart save early on.
But Corinthians, famed for their water-tight defense, held firm and began to launch a series of counters. Ten minutes before the break, former Flu striker Emerson Sheik drew blood, putting the visitors in front with a well placed strike.
In the second half Corinthians attempted to close the game out. Flu struggled to create chances, though Cassio was forced into action on the hour, saving Wellington Nem’s header.
In search of the equalizer Abel Braga threw on a third striker, Rafael Sóbis entering for defender Gum. And eight minutes from time Fred’s 10th goal of the season meant it was honors even.
Meanwhile, down in Porto Alegre, things went from bad to worse for Vasco as they lost 2-0 to Grêmio. Vasco coach Cristovão Borges is now under real pressure after seeing his side lose for the third successive match.
The game had been relatively even until Marcelo Moreno struck for the home side just before half-time. Vasco showed more drive after the break but were punished by misplaced passes. On 57 minutes, Kleber took advantage of a shaky Vasco defense, which included Dedé, to put the result beyond any doubt.
Tonight, Flamengo host relegation threatened Sport, while Botafogo travel to face São Paulo at the Morumí.
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