Chapecoense

Chapecoense to be crowned Copa Sudamericana champions

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter | 04 December 2016

Chapecoense, who lost 19 members of their squad during last week's tragic plane crash in Colombia, are to be awarded the Copa Sudamericana crown.

Chapecoense will be posthumously crowned as Copa Sudamericana champions following last week's tragic plane crash, which saw 19 members of the squad lose their lives.

The world of football was rocked when 71 people, including the vast majority of the Brazilian club's playing squad and staff, perished after the plane came down in Colombia.

Atletico National, the team Chapecoense were due to take on in the two-legged final of the competition - South America's equivalent of the Europa League - had asked the South American Football Federation (CONMEBOL) if their opponents could be made honorary champions.

It was initially thought that the request had been rejected, but the wish does now appear to have been granted as the interim president of the federation has said that the trophy will go to the stricken side.

"CONMEBOL have testified that they will crown Chapecoense as champions of the Copa Sudamericana," Ivan Tozzo said. "We are receiving support from all federations. The CBF, CONMEBOL, FIFA, and especially the people of Chapeco.

"Right now we are beginning to rebuild the team. People want football, people love football in Chapeco. Therefore, we must continue this. Let's talk and do well, let the dust settle and rebuild the team for next year."

Teams across the world have held a minute's silence ahead of games this weekend, while personal tributes have also been held - including at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday where Brazilian duo David Luiz and Willian held aloft black armbands.