Brazilian First Division kicks off its 2010 season

With ten games, the Brazilian First Division kicked off for a new season this Saturday. Rio de Janeiro State champions Botafogo hosted Sao Paulo State champions Santos in a very entertaining 3-3 tie. Also on saturday, Gremio went to Goiania and held Atletico GO to a scoreless draw, thanks in great part to goalkeeper Vitor. Meanwhile, Palmeiras played at home to Vitoria and won 1-0 on a goal by Lincoln.

On Sunday, defending champions Flamengo tied Sao Paulo, which had won the title three consecutive times prior to last year, in a slow 1-1 match at the Maracana Stadium. Newcomers Ceara beat Fluminense 1-0, the same score achieved by Guarani at home to Goias. Cruzeiro played in Porto Alegre and managed a 2-1 win over Internacional. Corinthians, fresh off being eliminated from the Libertadores Cup by Flamengo, came from behind to beat Atletico PR 2-1 at home. Atletico MG also won by a 2-1 margin, beating Vasco at home.

The best display of the first round was left for Santa Catarina, where Avai beat Prudente (formerly known as Barueri) by a 6-1 score. Emerson scored three times, with Caio adding a pair for the locals.

Check out the goals of round 1 below: