RIO DE JANEIRO, Dec. 4 (Xinhua) -- Jefferson Savarino scored a stunning first-half goal as Botafogo edged closer to their first Brazilian Serie A title since 1995 with a 1-0 victory at Internacional on Wednesday.

The Venezuelan playmaker put the visitors ahead in the fifth minute at Estadio Beira-Rio in Porto Alegre with a spectacular first-time volley from 20 yards after Thiago Almada's cross from the right flank.

The Rio de Janeiro outfit defended stubbornly thereafter to secure their 22nd win of the campaign and remain three points clear of second-placed Palmeiras with one match day remaining.

"It was a very difficult game, and we knew that we had to be prepared physically and mentally," Botafogo defender Alexander Barboza said.

"Today was a final, and the next game will be another one. If you're not strong, it can be difficult. But this team fights, and when things don't go our way, we know that our teammates are there to help."

The result came four days after Botafogo beat Atletico Mineiro 3-1 in Buenos Aires to secure their first Copa Libertadores title.

Artur Jorge's men only need a draw against Sao Paulo at home on Sunday to clinch their third Brazilian top-flight trophy and a historic double.

In other Brazilian Serie A fixtures on Wednesday, Vasco da Gama won 2-0 at home to Atletico Mineiro, Flamengo cruised to a 3-0 win at Criciuma, Juventude prevailed 2-1 at Sao Paulo, Gremio drew 1-1 at Vitoria, Atletico Goianiense eased to a 3-1 home win over Fortaleza and Palmeiras won 2-1 at Cruzeiro. Enditem

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