Fluminese extended their winning run to five matches as they came from behind to beat Ponte Preta 2-1 thanks to two late goals.
Luan put Ponte Preta ahead after just three minutes but their hopes of a win against the Campeonato Brasileiro leaders was undone by Wendel's 74th-minute red card and strikes from Fred in the 81st minute and Gum in the 89th.
Leonardo Silva bagged a brace for Atletico Mineiro as they also came from behind to beat ten-man Sport Recife. Sport went ahead through Hugo's 17th minute goal.
Sao Paulo moved up to fourth following a 2-0 win against Figueirense, both goals coming in the opening 21 minutes from Luis Fabiano and Douglas. They leapfrogged Vasco da Gama who went down 2-0 at Santos thanks to Ezequiel Miralles' double.
Bruno Mendes rescued a point for Botafogo in a 1-1 draw at Gremio. Leo Gago gave the hosts the lead before substitute Mendes' goal.
Elsewhere Nautico Recife edged out Palmeiras 1-0 through Kieza's strike. Thiago Heleno was sent off for Palmeiras.
Coritiba beat Bahia 2-1, Luccas Claro and Deivid on the scoresheet for the winners, with Alysson scoring Bahia's reply.
Information from the Press Association was used in this report.
