The XII Juegos Suramericanos (South American Games), which took place in Asunción, Paraguay, from 1 to 15 October, with more than 4,000 athletes from 15 countries who participated in 23 sports, including handball, have successfully come to an end with Argentina emerging victorious.

The men’s handball tournament was held at Centro de Entrenamiento Olympico in Asunción from 11 to 15 October, with five national teams – Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Paraguay and Venezuela – competing for the title, which was ultimately won by Argentina, who claimed four victories in as many matches. 

The game against Chile on the final day of the competition proved to be crucial, as both teams had enjoyed a 100% record up until this point of the competition. Argentina were dominant from the start, winning the first half 17:9 and maintaining the eight-goal advantage until the end (29:21).

Argentina secured their third title at Juegos Suramericanos after winning the tournament in 2002 and 2006. Notably, Brazil, who earned gold in 2010, 2014 and 2018, were not among the participants this year.

With six points, Chile finished second, their highest-ever position at the event, while Uruguay earned bronze. Argentina and Uruguay also qualified for the Juegos Panamericanos 2023, which will be held in Santiago. Besides the winners of the South American Games and host nation Chile, Brazil also secured a sport as the winners of the 2021 Junior Pan American Games.

Earlier this month, Brazil won the women’s competition in Asuncion, with Paraguay finishing second and Argentina third. 

Final ranking (men)

1. Argentina
2. Chile
3. Uruguay
4. Paraguay
5. Venezuela

Photo: Argentinian Handball Federation