2011 Pan American Challenge - Paraguay vs. Brazil in action
2011 Pan American Challenge - Paraguay vs. Brazil in action
(Photo: Giselle Ouchana)
The First Pan Am Challenge for men and women is currently underway in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil at the Deodoro Hockey Complex. The Pan Am Challenge is the entry point for teams to participate in the Pan American Cup. The first two teams in the Challenge move automatically to the Cup.

The Brazilian men are on top of the standings after three games at the Pan American Challenge in Rio de Janeiro. Brazil has seven points after earning two wins and a draw. More impressive is the 17-0 goals advantage that Brazil has amassed in its three games.

The lone blemish on Brazil’s record was a 0-0 draw against Uruguay, which Brazil will face on Sunday for the title. Uruguay trails Brazil with four points in the round robin standings, but has only played two games. Uruguay will take on last-place Paraguay on Saturday before facing Brazil in the final day of action.

For a complete round-up of the men’s tournament, including photos and video, please click here.

On the women’s side of the Pan American Challenge, Uruguay is atop of the five-team pool after the first four days of action with a perfect 3-0-0 record and a 13-0 goals advantage. Uruguay has its key test on Saturday when it takes on Guyana in the last game of round robin action. Guyana is currently in second place in the standings with two wins and one draw, good for seven points.

Rounding out the pack is host Brazil with four points, Paraguay with three points and Bermuda still looking for its first point of the event.

After the round robin concludes on Saturday, the women will play two placement games on Sunday. The third-place game will begin at noon and will be followed by the two top teams meeting at 14:30.

For a complete round-up of the women’s tournament, including photos and video, please click here.