The world of football industry has united to pay tribute to those who died in a plane crash in Colombia, which included many members of the Brazilian team Chapecoense. Seventy-seven people have passed away after a chartered Bolivian airline flight BAE-146 came down in the mountains approaching Medellin.
Brazilian President Michel Temer has announced three days of national mourning to pay respect for those affected by the tragedy. The incident occurred as Chapecoense were on route to play Atletico Nacional in the first leg of the final of the Copa Sudamericana, Wednesday 30 November.
The teams raised to success has been compared with Premier League side Leicester City. They earned promotion through the Brazilian football footholds in recent seasons before reaching their first major final event; the biggest match in their 43-year history. The tragic moment has drawn tributes from across football industry, including from some of the biggest names in the sport.
Former Brazil Soccer Team captain Neymar has led the words of condolence with an emotional message via his Instagram page. "Impossible to believe in this tragedy, impossible to believe in the event, impossible to believe that the plane crashed, impossible to believe that athletes, humans were on this plane, impossible to believe that these people left their families. IS IMPOSSIBLE TO BELIEVE !!!" wrote the Barcelona forward. "Today the World cries, but heaven rejoices in receiving Champions. My feelings to all family and friends."
The 2002 World Cup winner with Brazil, Ronaldinho, has also offered prayers for those who have lost by the events of Tuesday morning. "Strength to the family and friends of all the people who were o this plane!" the 2005 Ballon d'Or winner wrote on Twitter. "That God comforts us in this time of mourning."
Liverpool Philippe Coutinho and Chelsea winger Willian are two of 12 Brazilian players currently applying their trade in the Premier League and both have used social media to express their dismay for the tragedy which has unfolded. "How sad, may God comfort many hearts," said Coutinho. Meanwhile, Willian wrote: "God have mercy on the people who are there and give strength to all family members."
