Samuel strike hands Fluminense 2-1 victory

A second-half goal from striker Samuel gave defending champions Fluminense a 2-1 victory over Atletico Paranaense in the opening round of Brazil's Serie A championship.

Samuel netted in the 53rd minute Sunday after meeting a Rafael Sobis cross with a first-time finish into the bottom corner at the Claudio Moacyr Stadium here, reports Xinhua.

Earlier, Sobis converted from the penalty spot after Samuel was brought down in the area by Cleberson. Atletico's Manoel equalised on the half-hour when he rose above Fluminense's defence to nod in a Felipe corner-kick.

"I have set myself a target of 20 goals this season and I've started the best way possible. I already have five goals in 2013 and I hope to get 15 more between the Brasileirao and the Copa Libertadores," Samuel said.

In other matches, Sao Paulo defeated Ponte Preta 2-0, newly promoted Criciuma overcame Bahia 3-1, Cruzeiro beat Goias 5-0, Coritiba defeated Atletico Mineiro 2-1, Santos drew 0-0 with Flamengo and Gremio beat Nautico 2-0 at home.