Rio de Janeiro: The Brazilian season got off to a flying start with a brilliant goal direct from a corner by former Brazil and Real Madrid fullback Roberto Carlos on Sunday.
Roberto Carlos scored with what is known in South America as an Olympic goal to help Corinthians beat Portuguesa 2-0 on the opening weekend of the Paulista (Sao Paulo state) championship.
Curl the ball
The 37 year old took advantage of a distraction by rival goalkeeper Weverton, who was organising his defence, to curl the ball in off the far post from the corner flag in the 20th minute.
"That was the first Olympic goal of my career. It took a long time coming, right," a grinning Roberto Carlos told reporters as he was kissed on his bald head by former Brazil team mate Ronaldo.
Midfielder Paulinho had opened the scoring in the 12th minute.
Encouraging
Striker Ronaldo, who struggled with injuries last year and played less than half Corinthians' matches, is now captain and played until the final minutes in an encouraging performance for the new season.
The Brazilian season starts with state championships. The national championship kicks off in May.
