Corinthians secure sixth straight victory

Rio de Janeiro, June 15: Corinthians extended their lead at the top of Brazil's Serie A standings on Thursday with a 1-0 home victory over Cruzeiro, their sixth straight win.

Paraguay international centre-back Fabian Balbuena put Corinthians ahead with a header on the stroke of halftime and the hosts held on to secure their sixth win from seven matches, reports Xinhua news agency.

The result gave the six-time Brazilian champions a four-point buffer at the top of the standings, though second-placed Gremio have a game in hand.

Meanwhile, Flamengo ended a run of four matches without a win with a 2-0 home victory over Ponte Preta.

Former Brazil international striker Leandro Damiao and centre-back Rever were on target for the hosts.

In other matches, Chapecoense beat Vasco da Gama 2-1, Santos overcame Palmeiras 1-0, Vitoria drew 2-2 with Botafogo, Sport Recife drew 0-0 with Sao Paulo, Atletico Paranaense defeated Atletico Mineiro 1-0 and Atletico Goianiense beat Avai 3-1.