Chapecoense are expected to be awarded Copa Sudamericana following an air disaster which claimed the lives of 71 passengers including many of the Brazilian club’s players and staff.

The plane carrying Chapecoense to their 2016 Copa Sudamericana first leg final in Colombia crashed in the Andes leaving just six passengers alive.

Their opponents Atletico Nacional immediately called for the tragedy-hit Chapecoense to be given the title after their ‘great loss’ and in order to pay ‘homage to the victims of the fatal accident.’

Conmebol, the body governing South American football, is likely to make the decision on December 21.

If awarded the title, Chapecoense will qualify for next year’s Copa Libertadores and Supercopa Euroamericana.