Los Gladiadores were led by an inspired performance from Federico Fernández as he bagged 11 goals and the man of the match award at the at the Ginásio de Esportes Geraldo Magalhães.

Ignacio Pizarro's 14 goals made him the match's top scorer in the Group A clash.

Fernández surpassed a major milestone as he recorded his 700th goal for the national team.

It was the Albiceleste's first fixture under the leadership of new head coach Guillermo Milano.

Milano used the entire squad at his disposal to warm up his players as they had not been able to play any friendlies prior to the tournament because of COVID-19 restrictions.

"I am very happy," said the 32-year-old Fernández.

"When you get older I think you enjoy it a little more each time.

"We have technically more complex games ahead of us so we prepare for that moment.

"We are adapting to Guille's imprint, beyond the fact that we have known him for a long time.

"He became the coach and he has his way of playing.

"We will have to adapt to that a bit.

"We have a couple of games to adjust and try to play well and win the tournament, which is what we want."

Hosts and 2020 silver medallists Brazil also got off to a winning start as they defeated Paraguay 46-19 in a comprehensive performance.

The victory puts them in pole position in Group B, ahead of Chile on goal difference.

The Chileans dispatched Costa Rica 34-16 in the opening match of the tournament.

Bolivia are set to commence tomorrow's action against Uruguay in Group A before Paraguay take on Chile and Brazil face Costa Rica in Group B.