Updated: Late win against Argentina keeps Brazil's hopes alive

A late try by winger Ivan Mancini has kept Brazil's hopes of winning the South America Championship in Beunos Aires after a 28-26 comeback defeat of Argentina.

The hosts led 6-4 at halftime and 26-4 during the second half but Brazil stormed back to claim victory.

Brazil must now wait on the result of the final match of the tournament between Argentina and Chile.

A win by Chile would secure the South America Championship after defeating Brazil 44-22 in the opening match on November 29.

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

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 loser  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