Adriano, who has revived his career at home in Brazil since leaving Inter Milan in April, took his leading scorer's tally to 15 at the Maracana, where 78,409 fans set a Brazilian championship record for the season.
"The Emperor" scored twice in 12 minutes early in the second half to lift Flamengo, unbeaten in six matches, into sixth place and push their "Fla-Flu" derby rivals deeper into relegation danger.
"We don't have a super team but we have very determined athletes who never give up," Ramalho told reporters after Palmeiras came from a goal down for the win. "It's very pleasing to work with a squad like that."
Brazil striker Diego Tardelli scored Mineiro's opener to take his goal tally to 14, one less than Adriano, while their Uruguayan goalkeeper Fabian Carini saved a penalty from Basilio after he had brought the striker down.
Ronaldo's Corinthians were beaten 3-1 at home by Atletico Paranaense and are now 10th, having failed to win their last four matches.
