Rio de Janeiro: Uruguay striker Diego Forlan continued his impressive early season form with a goal either side of half-time in Internacional’s 3-0 victory over Pelotas in the Brazilian football league.

Forlan, who only returned to Brazil a day earlier after playing in Uruguay’s 3-1 defeat to Spain in Qatar on Wednesday, opened the scoring with a first-time left-foot finish before adding another by lofting a deft shot over goalkeeper Jonatas on Saturday.

Having scored just five goals from 19 appearances for Internacional last season, Forlan has now struck three times in his past two matches in Brazil’s Campeonato Gaucho.

“It’s different when you have a good pre-season, know your teammates and are playing in your position. It’s easier to play your best football,” the 33-year-old said.

Internacional coach Dunga offered subtle praise to his star forward, preferring to acknowledge the performance of the entire team.

“Inter has players of real quality,” said the former Brazil coach and 1994 World Cup-winning captain. “Those who have been watching us train know what we are working towards. We are trying to get the best out of every player.”