In one of the greatest tragedies of recent time, Brazilian football team Chapecoense suffered a fatal air crash where all but five people were killed. The Brazilian football team were on their way to play the Copa Sudamericana final (South America’s version of the Europa League) against Atletico Mineiro when the tragic incident occurred.
In light of the circumstances, the game was called off with Atletico Nacional even agreeing to award the Copa Sudamericana title to Chapecoense. While the gesture was praised by all and sundry, the Brazilian FA has strangely decided to fine Chape and Mineiro for forfeiting their final league game.
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After a crippling crash like that, the last thing anyone had in mind was football and it was completely understandable that both teams did not want to go ahead with the match. However, the Brazil FA has taken a dim view of things and decided to penalise both the teams.
The move has been criticised by a lot of people with many urging the Brazilian FA to reconsider their decision and not go ahead with what they have planned.
Chapecoense vow to rebuild and come back stronger
The vice-president of Brazilian top-flight side Chapecoense has vowed to get the club back on its feet and playing again next year after a plane crash in Colombia wiped out almost the entire squad.
Club vice president Ivan Tozzo told Brazil's Globoesporte website he was determined to rebuild Chapecoense and play in the Brazilian league again next year.
Also read: Chapeceonse name new coach after plane tragedy
"We are going to have to restructure the club, sign new players, hold lots of meetings and have lots of patience to keep going in the Brasileiro, a tournament that is very important to us," Tozzo said.
"We intend on continuing next year."
The whole world has come together to show solidarity to Chapo in their time of need with Spanish giants Barcelona even inviting the Brazilian side to play a friendly. However, the Brazilian FA is adamant on following the rulebook even in this time of disaster.
