Fabio Rochemback was suspended for the contest with Adilson deputising for him and Andre Lima came back into the side after missing out on the win against Bahia.
Sao Paulo started the game on top with Mario Fernandes looking dangerous on the right wing, especially when counter-attacking. Dagoberto and Lucas both had early half chances to open the scoring but the Gremio defence stood firm.
Both teams had penalty claims turned down and the home side also had a goal disallowed. Marquinhos put in a low cross which Andre Lima failed to touch, and the ball went past the keeper into the net. However, the officials ruled that Andre Lima had interfered with play whilst being in an offside position.
Gremio began to dominate the game with Tricolor looking like a side under pressure in their quest for the title.
Sao Paulo changed their game plan after the break with them able to keep the ball better in midfield and Dagoberto could have given Sao Paulo the lead on the 54th minute.
Also, five minutes later, Juan crossed into the area and Casimirio headed it towards goal but it was cleared well by the Gremio defence.
Despite these two chances, a minute later, Gremio scored. Julio Cesar got the ball on the left of the area and was able to pick out Douglas with a low cross giving the keeper Roger no chance.
Sao Paulo pressed hard in the final minutes of the game but Gremio would hold on for yet another victory. The ‘Roth Revolution’ continues with Gremio up to 12th position with 30 points while Sao Paulo drops a place to 3rd after Vasco draw at Figueirense.
