Ronaldinho scores in Atletico`s 4-1 victory

Rio de Janeiro: Former Brazilian star Ronaldinho scored a trademark goal as Atletico Mineiro stayed on top of Brazil`s Serie A standings with a 4-1 victory over Sport Recife.

The two-time FIFA world player of the year ran onto a defence splitting pass from Bernard before dribbling past Edcarlos and then curled an angled shot beyond the reach of goalkeeper Magrao Saturday. It was Ronaldinho`s first goal in open play since February when he scored during former club Flamengo`s 3-1 victory over Resende. The result maintained Atletico`s two-point buffer at the top of the championship standings with 28 points from 11 matches. "We`re focused on what we have to do and know that it`s still early in the season. It`s been a great start but there is still a long way to go," Ronaldinho said after the match. Gilberto opened the scoring for Sport in the northeastern city of Recife with a 25th-minute strike before Danilinho equalized eight minutes later. Ronaldinho`s goal in the 33rd minute was followed by a thumping header from former Manchester City striker Jo. Midfielder Bernard, who played a role in each of his team`s four goals, completed the rout by calmly lobbing the ball over Magrao after spotting the keeper off his line. IANS