Tucumán were impressive winners over Brazil on Sunday. The teams battled it out in the second match of the Cross Border competition in Asunción, Paraguay. Tucumán were 34-17 winners against Brazil’s Senior National Men’s team.
The Estádio Heroes de Curupayti is well known to Brazil’s players. It has been where the teams have met regularly in international competition in Paraguay. It has also been used for matches in the Súper Liga Americana de Rugby (SLAR). Tucumán is in advanced talks to be a new team in the competition in 2023.
Córdoba is also seeking to join the expanded SLAR, the Super Rugby Americas. Córdoba were 43-30 winners over Paraguay on Saturday. Paraguay was packed with Olímpia Lions players while Córdoba had notable names than are expected to be unveiled for the Córdoba professional team.
Brazil started well against Tucumán. A strong opening half saw Os Tupis leading 17-3 at half-time. Ariel Rodrigues, Leonardo “Neymar” and Victor “Feijão” were all first half try scorers.
The Argentine province had the better of play in the second half. Brazil was put under pressure. With a player yellow carded, Brazil lost their edge. Tucumán capitalized by scoring four tries and landing a drop-goal.
In addition, to scoring 31 second half points, Tucumán were able to concede zero. They recovered from a 17-3 half-time deficit to win the match 34-17.
Brazil will play again on Wednesday. Os Tupis will be up against Córdoba also in Asunción, Paraguay. The uncapped match between Brazil and Paraguay will take place on Saturday.