Chapecoense crash survivor Ruschel retires at 37

Alan Ruschel, a Brazilian defender who survived the tragic plane crash in 2016 that claimed 71 lives including Chapecoense players and staff, has retired from professional football at 37. The survivor helped his boyhood club, Juventude, secure a promotion to Brazil's Serie A with a 2-0 win over Botafogo. The emotional farewell saw fans celebrate his career with a lap of honor, carrying Ruschel onto the pitch before kick-off.

After the match, Ruschel spoke about his decision to retire, noting that recurring injuries and his body no longer responding were factors. Though he faced challenges post the accident, Ruschel made a remarkable return to football a year later, continuing his career despite the physical and emotional scars. His final game with Juventude marked a fitting end to his career, as he rejoined the club where his journey began, having first represented them in 2007.