Updated: Chile win South American Championship despite loss to Argentina

Argentina came from behind to down Chile 32-30 in the final match of the South America Championship in Beunos Aires - but the Weichafes were crowned winners of the tournament.

The Weichafes led 18-4 at halftime but were unable to hang on as the hosts stormed home to claim victory and ensure Argentina, Brazil and Chile each finished with one win apiece.

However, Chile had a superior for-and-against after beating Brazil 44-22 in the opening Sudamericano match on Friday. 

A late try by winger Ivan Mancini completed a 28-26 comeback win by Brazil against Argentina on Saturday.

Argentina led 6-4 at halftime and 26-4 during the second half but Brazil rallied to score three tries in the last 10 minutes of the match.

The tournament was the fourth iteration of the South American/Latin American Championship and featured Brazil, Chile and hosts Argentina, who were recently admitted as an International Rugby League member under the leadership of ARL President Pablo Aguilera. 

Argentina Rugby League is part of the Asia Pacific Rugby League Confederation. APRLC and the IRL 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 also took part in Nines matches against local Argentine teams which were played as preliminaries to the South American Championship fixtures.

Results:

Friday, November 29: Chile 44 v Brazil 22

Saturday, November 30:  Brazil 28 v Argentina 26

Sunday, December 1: Argentina 32 v Chile 30

Matches were streamed live on Youtube