The South American Women’s Club Championship witnessed a fierce match-up between Brazilian powerhouses as Dentil Praia Clube overcame Gerdau Minas in the final.

In a thrilling five-set encounter, Dentil Praia Clube emerged as champions by defeating Gerdau Minas 3-2 (25-16, 17-25, 27-25, 12-25, 15-11) on Sunday at Arena Dentil in Uberlândia, Brazil. The two teams are now qualified for the FIVB Club World Championship scheduled for the end of the year in China. Sesi Vôlei Bauru, also from Brazil, took bronze to complete the podium.

Displaying exceptional focus and backed by their passionate frans, Dentil Praia Clube opened with a six-point lead, leaving no room for their opponents to react. The home team maintained the pressure and, guided by the incredible performances of Carol e J. Martínez, secured the first set 25-16.

The second set was a very different story. Gerdau Minas improved to take control on the court and triumph 25-17 to tie the match at 1-1. The third set proved to be the most difficult set, with teams playing well. A good sequence of serves by Dentil Praia Clube setter Claudinha helped the team to jump ahead on the scoreboard once again with a 27-25 win.

In the fifth and final set, the home crowd got behind their team who scored an impressive six points to quickly take the lead. From there, Dentil Praia Clube closed out the final set 15-11 to claim gold.