Second-placed Flamengo were on the wrong end of a surprise 4-1 defeat to Atletico Goianiense to leave Corinthians three points clear at the top of the Campeonato on Thursday.

Pituca and Juninho made it 2-0 to the visitors at half-time, with Anselmo and Diogo Campos doubling the lead before Jael's late consolation. Joilson saw red for Goianiense four minutes from time.

Third-placed Sao Paulo were held 1-1 by America MG. Sao Paulo thought they had stolen the game with Bonfim Marlos' 85th-minute strike only for Everton Kempes to level matters just a minute later.

Palmeiras drew 1-1 with Bahia, with Jorge Valdivia (53) and Christian Titi (67) trading goals.