It could also be, the next controller direct that they cross XYZ point be after pick a time. The flight was say three minutes away from the fix but some how had to delay for say eight minutes. Also in parts of Brazil the radar coverage is not the greatest or even not there, so separation is maintained by time separation. Not a big deal.
The flight also could have been given a clearance limit. Can not proceed beyond without further clearance, thus a turn in holding.