As this event coincided with an official International Handball Federation (IHF) date, each country called on its European-based stars, with Argentina and Brazil as front-runners for the title, and Chile lurking in the background. In 2019, the 'verdeamarelha' missed out on the final, and this time they finished third after beating the United States 27-28 in a thrilling duel.

The Brazilians and Argentinians had dominated the group stage and the semi-finals (Portuguese speakers beat the United States 40-27 and Spanish speakers defeated the hosts 33-26). The stage was set for a sensational final, reminiscent of the 2018 Pan-American Championship, which Argentina won 24-29.

The Brazilians started better, and the defensive duo of Thiagus Petrus (Barcelona, Spain) and Rogerio Moraes (Melsungen, Germany) were effective in containing the Argentine frontline (10-8, 18th minute). It was the spectacular performance of centre-back Pedro Martínez (Colegio Ward, Argentina) that began to turn the tide of the game and proved crucial in helping his team take a 14-16 lead into the break.

The Albiceleste maintained its lead in the second half, although with 12 minutes left, Rudolph Hackbarth (REBI Cuenca, Spain) scored twice to make it 21-23 with 12 minutes remaining. However, the Brazilian defensive 'centre' began to crack, and the 'Gladiators', once again led by orchestrator Pedro Martínez, made their mark in both defence and attack. They knew how to pick out the weakest link in the defence, Barcelona's Haniel Langaro, and extended their lead to 25-32 at the break.

Alongside Nicolás Bono's six goals from eight attempts (Cherbourg Manche, France), Pedro Martínez was the outstanding performer with three goals and excellent decision-making. Brazil's top scorer was Jean Pierre Dupoix with six goals (three from the seven-metre line).

In doing so, Guillermo Milano's side efficiently retained the Pan American Games gold medal and once again kept their South American arch-rivals at bay. Perhaps even more importantly, they earned the right to compete at the Paris Olympics. This led to a historic celebration among the players, coaching staff, and the dozens of fans. The title was well deserved.

Brazil, on the other hand, will have to battle it out with some of the Old Continent's strongest team, including European runners-up Spain, in a fierce pre-Olympic competition.