Men's South American Championship - Brazil and Venezuela claim World Cup spots

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL, September 07, 2003 - The Brazilian national team were crowned South American champion for the 24th time after beating Venezuela 3-0 on Sunday in the gymnasium of the Miecimo Da Silva, in Campo Grande, Zone West of Rio de Janeiro.

Despite the result both teams claimed the tickets for representing South America at the World Cup in Japan in November having finished the tournament as the two best teams. Brazil's victory also served as revenge over Venezuela for losing to their neighbours in the Panamerican Games final of Santo Domingo-2003. Brazil, current World champion and World League champion, celebrated each point against Venezuela as if he was the last one, and prevailed 25-22, 26-24, 25-22. Giba was the best scorer with 13 points. Argentina won the bronze medal after defeating Paraguay 3-0 (25-17, 25-13, 25-21).