SAO PAULO (AP) – Grêmio dropped out of the top flight in Brazilian soccer on Thursday, despite a 4-2 win at home against champion Atlético Mineiro on the final date of the campaign.
The Porto Alegre team won their third Copa Libertadores just four years ago and had several stars on their squad this season, including winger Douglas Costa and right-back Rafinha.
The relegation came after local adversary Juventude beat Corinthians 1-0 with a penalty converted by Chico Kim in the 83rd minute.
Grêmio finished the Brazilian championship with 43 points from 38 games. It ranked 17th.
Juventude finished one place above, with 4 units.
Grêmio has dropped three times. The previous one dated back to 2004.
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