Ghanaian midfielder Francis Amuzu scored for Gremio, but his effort proved insufficient as the Porto Alegre-based side suffered a 3-1 defeat to Flamengo in the Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A.

Flamengo made a strong start at the Maracana, with Samuel Lino opening the scoring in the 20th minute to give the hosts an early advantage.

Pedro extended Flamengo’s lead eight minutes later, finishing off an assist from Jorge Carrascal before adding his second goal in stoppage time of the first half to put the home side firmly in control.

Amuzu started the encounter on the bench and was introduced at the beginning of the second half, replacing Tete as Gremio sought a way back into the contest.

The Ghanaian made an immediate impact, reducing the deficit in the 69th minute with a well-taken free-kick to give the visitors a lifeline.

However, Gremio could not find another goal as Flamengo managed the closing stages to secure all three points.

The strike was Amuzu’s second goal in seven appearances for Gremio this season