The winning goal came from captain Fred minutes from time, which combined with Gremio's defeat handed the Rio giants the title for the second time in three seasons.

"It's a mixture of happiness with emotion. The squad is marvellous, these fans follow us always," Fred told reporters.

"I thank God, the (club) board, the players, the (coaching) staff, the fans... Only a player's family knows the effort we all put in."