Chapecoense post Eternal Champions video on YouTube with incredible message
TRAGIC Chapecoense, the little known Brazilian team virtually wiped out in Tuesday's plane crash in Columbia, have released an awe-inspiring video on YouTube.
Entitled “Eternal Champions” - with the hashtag #ForçaChape - it has gone viral as the world struggles to come to terms with the crash that killed 71 people, including almost all the team and its coaching staff.
Chapecoense, only founded in 1973, were preparing for the biggest match in their short history, having defied the odds to reach the Copa Sudamericana final.
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The 45-second video features footage from the their run to the final where they due to meet Atletico Naciona and shows the team celebrating, and the outpouring of emotion in the stands.
It also includes an incredible message of hope for the future, which is translated below:
'Today we wake up with a new challenge,
Because life has given us a different mission.
Our warriors became heroes and eternalised their lives in a battle that made the world stop.
Today’s game does not have a final whistle, together we are more than eleven.
O glorious green that expands
Among the states you are always a splendor
In the most difficult joys and times
My hurricane, you’re always a winner.'
There has been a wave of support from a football world united in grief with prayers and well wishes to Chapecoense from all quarters, including from other clubs in Brazil.
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The Medellin-bound plane came down just 30km south of the Colombian city.
Hundreds of the club's fans have gathered at the Chapeco stadium to mourn the loss of their heroes.
Brazilian clubs have offered to loan the club players, while final opponents Atletico Nacional have asked South American governing body Conmebol to award the club the trophy.