The IHF Nations Trophy 2026 in Lima has its first South American champion. Uruguay won the final against Chile with a score of 19:15, securing the title. Host nation Peru reached the semi-finals and finished the tournament in fourth place after losing the bronze medal match to Venezuela.
From September 2nd to 6th, 2026, seven South American women's national teams competed at the VIDENA in Lima. In addition to Peru, Uruguay, Chile, Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, and Bolivia participated. This was the first time the IHF Nations Trophy was held at the senior level in South America.
In addition to the tournament victory, two qualification spots for the South and Central American Championship were at stake. This meant the tournament had direct significance for the path to the 2027 Women's World Championship in Germany and the Netherlands.
Seven Teams and Two Groups
The preliminary round was played in two groups. Group A saw Chile, Venezuela, Colombia, and Ecuador compete against each other. Host nation Peru played in Group B alongside Uruguay and Bolivia.
Chile and Uruguay brought more international experience. For Peru, the home tournament primarily offered an opportunity to compete against stronger teams in the region under competitive conditions.
Peru Starts with a Clear Victory
The Peruvian women's national team opened their tournament on September 2nd against Bolivia. In front of a home crowd, they made a convincing start. Peru won 34:19, securing their first two points in Group B.
Camila Delgado scored ten goals and was named the best player of the match. In Group A, Chile made an early statement with a 45:10 victory over Ecuador. Venezuela defeated Colombia 27:17.
Uruguay Takes Control in Group B
As the tournament progressed, the task for Peru became considerably more difficult. Uruguay proved to be the strongest team in Group B and later confirmed their role as favorites.
In their direct encounter, Uruguay won decisively with a score of 40:10. Martina Barreiro scored ten goals and was named the best player of the match. Despite the defeat, Peru advanced to the semi-finals as the second team from the group.
In Group A, Chile emerged victorious. In their final group match, the Chileans defeated Colombia 34:12. Venezuela also reached the round of the top four.
Chile Stops Peru in the Semi-Finals
In the semi-finals, Chile awaited the Peruvian team. The difference in performance quickly became apparent. Chile won 42:13 and advanced to the final. Amanda Riquelme scored ten goals and was named the best player of the match.
In the second semi-final, Uruguay defeated Venezuela 32:15. Thus, Uruguay and Chile faced each other in the final, having also secured qualification for the South and Central American Championship.
Peru Misses Bronze Medal Against Venezuela
On the final day of the tournament, Peru had the opportunity to conclude the home tournament with a spot on the podium. In the bronze medal match, the team faced Venezuela.
Peru kept the match closer than their previous games against Uruguay and Chile. However, Venezuela ultimately prevailed with a score of 28:20. Elimar Machado scored eleven goals and was named the best player of the match.
Thus, Venezuela claimed third place. Peru finished the first South American IHF Nations Trophy for senior women in fourth place.
Uruguay Turns the Final Against Chile Around
The final between Chile and Uruguay developed into the closest match of the decisive tournament day. Chile got off to a better start and led 9:7 at halftime.
After the break, Uruguay stabilized their defense. Uruguay turned the game around and ultimately won 19:15. Sabrina Grieco scored five goals and was named the best player of the final.
Standings of the IHF Nations Trophy 2026
1. Uruguay
2. Chile
3. Venezuela
4. Peru
5. Colombia
6. Bolivia
7. Ecuador
In the match for fifth and sixth place, Colombia defeated Bolivia 39:5. Ecuador finished in seventh place.
Uruguay and Chile Continue Their Path Towards World Championship 2027
The sporting value of the tournament extends beyond the title. Uruguay and Chile, as finalists, have qualified for the South and Central American Championship. This championship is the next step towards the IHF Women's World Championship 2027 in Germany and the Netherlands.
The Nations Trophy aims to provide national teams with additional international competition opportunities. For South America, Lima was the first stop for this new competition at the senior level.
What Remains for Peru?
For Peruvian women's handball, the tournament provides a clear picture. Against Bolivia, Peru showed its potential and celebrated a comfortable 34:19 victory. Against the stronger teams of Uruguay and Chile, the differences in performance were considerable.
The bronze medal match against Venezuela was significantly closer, ending 20:28. Peru can therefore primarily count the international matches and reaching the semi-finals as valuable experience gained. With an eye on the Pan American Games 2027 in Lima, the further development of the national team gains additional importance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the IHF Nations Trophy 2026 in Lima?
Uruguay won the tournament. In the final, the team defeated Chile 19:15.
What place did Peru take?
Peru reached the semi-finals and finished in fourth place after a 20:28 defeat against Venezuela in the bronze medal match.
How did Peru play against Bolivia?
Peru won its opening match against Bolivia 34:19. Camila Delgado scored ten goals and was named the best player of the match.
Which teams qualified for the next round?
Uruguay and Chile reached the final and thus qualified for the South and Central American Championship.
Sources
International Handball Federation (IHF) – IHF Nations Trophy 2026, South American Zone.
South and Central America Handball Confederation (COSCABAL / Handball SCA) – Tournament progress and results.
Handball SCA – Conclusion of the group stage, semi-finals and final in Lima.
Image source Hero: FPH / Dajhana Prado via Handball SCA.