Rio de Janeiro, Nov 12 (IANS): Fluminense announced the sacking of coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo as the reigning Campeonato Brasileiro holders fight to avoid relegation to the second tier.

The 61-year-old former Brazil and Real Madrid manager, who took over the role from Abel Braga in July, will be replaced by Dorival Junior, the Brazilian football club said Monday night, reports Xinhua.

The decision comes a day after Fluminense's 0-1 loss to Corinthians, the club's third successive defeat.

It left them third last in Brazil's top flight standings with five matches remaining. The bottom four teams will be relegated to Serie B in 2014.

"It came as a surprise to me because it interrupted the work we had planned," Luxemburgo said of his dismissal.

"This group of players is very focused and determined to react. I am convinced they will remain in the top division next year."

Dorival's first game after taking charge will be against Nautico at the Maracana Thursday.