Defending champions Fluminense began their title defence in the best possible way with a 2-1 win over Atlético Paranaense thanks to goals from Rafael Sóbis and Samuel Rosa.
However, title rivals Atlético Mineiro were stunned by a 2-1 upset to Coritiba after a last minute winner by Arthur completing a comeback from one goal down.
Grêmio fared better in their opening game, taking a routine 2-0 win over Nautico thanks to goals from Zé Roberto and Elano.
Santos and Flamengo battled to a goalless draw in Neymar’s farewell game as he spent his final moments in a Peixe shirt before leaving for Barcelona.
Cruzeiro recovered from their disappointing Campeonato Mineiro final defeat to crush Goias 5-0 with Nílton bagging a brace.
Lucio and Jadson gave São Paulo a simple 2-0 win over Ponte Preta but also saw Edson Silva given his marching orders for a second yellow card.
Criciuma also recorded a big 3-1 win over Bahia thanks to strikes from Matheus Ferraz, Lins amd João Vitor.
