Champion Botafogo downs Fluminense in Rio derby

RIO DE JANEIRO, April 26 (Xinhua) -- Vitinho and Jefferson Savarino scored in each half as reigning champion Botafogo eased to a 2-0 home win over Rio de Janeiro rival Fluminense in Brazil's Serie A championship on Saturday.

Vitinho put his side ahead with a first-time effort from the edge of the six-yard box after Igor Jesus' cross from the right wing.

Venezuela international midfielder Jefferson Savarino doubled the lead when he dribbled 30 yards and calmly slotted his shot into the bottom far corner.

The result at Rio's Olympic Stadium leaves Botafogo sixth in the 20-team Serie A standings, two points behind fourth-placed Fluminense.

"We were the better side and thankfully I was able to play my part with a goal," Savarino said after the match. "Things haven't gone our way so far this season but that's football. This gives us some breathing space and now we have to put our heads down and keep fighting."

Elsewhere in Brazil's top-flight on Saturday, Recife was held to a goalless home draw by Fortaleza, Atletico Mineiro drew 2-2 at Mirassol, Sao Paulo drew 1-1 at Ceara and Internacional secured a 3-1 home victory over Juventude. Enditem