Chile open South American Championships with win against Brazil

Chile are one win from taking out the South America Championship in Beunos Aires after defeating Brazil 44-22 in the opening match of the tournament.

The result reversed last year's 20-18 loss to Brazil and keeps alive Chile's hopes of being crowned Sud Americano champions.

Brazil must now win against Argentina on Saturday, November 30 and then hope the hosts defeat Chile on Sunday, December 1.

If Argentina beat Brazil, the match on Sunday will determine the winner of the 2024 South American Championship

The tournament is the fourth iteration of the South American/Latin American Championship and features Brazil, Chile and hosts Argentina, where recently admitted as an International Rugby League member under the leadership of President Pablo Aguilera. 

Argentina Rugby League is part of the Asia Pacific Rugby League Confederation. APRLC and the IRL has worked very closely with Argentina Rugby League to support them with hosting the South American Championships.

APRL Chairman Sandis Tsaka said:  "APRLC is excited to see the growth of Rugby League in South America." 

APRLC Vice-Chairman, Greg Peters, has experience of the sporting landscape in South America after previously working as GM of Argentine Rugby Union and overseeing the nation's entry into Super Rugby.

"Having spent a number of years previously living and working in Argentina, it’s wonderful to see ARL hosting this important Sudamericana Championship," Peters said.

Colombia is also taking part in Nines matches against local Argentine teams which are played as preliminaries to the South American Championship fixtures.

Draw (local time):

Friday, November 29: Chile vs. Brazil   11 AM

Saturday, November 30:  Friday´s looser  vs. Argentina - 2 PM

Sunday, December 1: Friday´s winner  vs. Argentina - 3.30 PM

The champion will be decided by wins and then, if all teams win one match each, by points differential.

Matches will be streamed live on Youtube