However, these triumphs were overshadowed by a falling plane. The crash on Nov. 29, close to the Colombian city of Medellin, was made all the more tragic by the story of Chapecoense.

A modest team from the southern town of Chapeco and a relative newcomer to the ranks of the sparkling first division, Chapecoense was on its way to its first international final against Atletico Nacional.

The plane, belonging to Bolivia's LaMia, was carrying the team, its guests and 22 journalists to Medellin, when it crashed near the airport, calling all on board except for six survivors, three players, two crew members, and a journalist.

The shock and pain united the footballing world to stand united with the families of the deceased. Stadiums across the world fell silent as ranks of players bowed their heads. Many of them wore the symbol of the Brazilian club on their shirts and cries of "Vamos Chape!" were heard from Manchester to Mexico City.

A massive funeral ceremony was held at Chapecoense's stadium, attended by Brazilian President Michel Temer and football dignitaries from around the world.

However, Atletico Nacional in Colombia performed an emotional ceremony of their own and successfully requested that the Copa Sudamericana be given to Chapecoense.

This will allow the club to directly qualify for the Copa Libertadores and other international cups, while the Brazilian football association has said the club will not be relegated for the next three seasons.

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