As expected, Brazil and Argentina have advanced to play for the Gold medal today. Brazil easily defeated Chile 33-21. The Argentina – Cuba match was ended early due to what turned out to be a false bomb threat. Argentina was leading 17-8 when the gym was cleared and apparently it was decided to forgo the remainder of the match. This marks the 5th straight time archrivals Brazil and Argentina have played each other in the finals. Brazil has won the last two meetings including a 27-24 victory in 2008. Host Chile and Cuba will play for 3rd place and the last remaining World Championship spot.

In the consolation bracket semifinals, Uruguay defeated the Dominican Republic 28-24 while Greenland needed two overtimes to outlast Canada 38-36. Down 6 goals at halftime (18-12) Canada rallied to end regulation play tied at 28 all. With these defeats the Dominican Republic and Canada will slip back into Division 1 status. Both sides had qualified for the Men‘s Elite Championships by placing 1st and 2nd at the Division 1 Championships last November. To participate in the 2012 Championship they will need to do the same thing in November 2011.

Official Results: http://www.panamhandball.org/index.php?option=com_joomleague&func=showPlan&mode=1&p=15&Itemid=39
For additional information on the tournament check out the Mexico Handball Forum: http://handball.mforos.com/