Paraguay are South American ‘B Champions. The u19 side completed a perfect 3-0 campaign in Colombia, defeating Peru, Venezuela and the host nation.
Saturday’s match against Colombia put the two undefeated countries from rounds one and two head-to-head. They had both blasted their way to victories over Peru and Venezuela, results which highlighted an emerging gap within the ‘B’ division.
Colombia had local support but the title was won by Los Yakáres. The Paraguayans came out 21-19 winners. The title was on the back of a dominant opening half. Paraguay were 21-7 ahead at the interval. Colombia were the better side in the second half but just fell short of completing a come-from-behind victory.
Earlier in the day Venezuela had overcome Peru. The Venezuelans 23-17 victory sealed Bronze spot and ensured Peru finished bottom and were the tournament’s only winless side.
In being crowned champions, Paraguay also booked a spot in the qualifiers for the 2018 World Rugby Junior World Trophy. Colombia, as runners-up, will now compete in the Rugby Americas North u19 tournament in Miami, Florida.