BRA - Universo return to action in South America

BRASILIA (South American Club Championship) - A slimline South American Club Championship gets under way on Wednesday as hosts Universo/BRB attempt to defend their title in Brasilia.

Only seven teams will compte in the tournament after four withdrew for financial reasons.

None of Malvin of Uruguay, Paraguay's Sol de America, Chilean giants Provincial Osorno and Peru's Fuerza Aerea Peruana will compete, with Bolivian side Amistad and Paraguayans Deportivo San Jose taking up two of the vacant slots.

Brazil's second representatives are Minas Tenis, while 2006-07 Liga Nacional finalists Boca Juniors and Penarol will fly the flag for Argentina.

Penarol guard Sebastian Rodriguez told newspaper La Capital: "To lift the trophy, we must beat everyone. They say we are not favourites, but if we are on form for the five days, we could win it."

The other competitors are Venezuelan side Duros, who will make their bow against Penarol.

The other opening-round fixtures see Boca Juniors meet Minas Tenis and Universo/BRB play Deportivo San Jose.

By Matias Greco
FIBA