A cloud of grief descended on Serbian football after Radnicki 1923 players fell to their knees in tears upon learning that their 44-year-old head coach, Mladen Zizovic, had died during their Super League clash against Mladost.
Zizovic, a former Bosnia and Herzegovina international, reportedly suffered a suspected heart attack midway through the first half of the match. The referee immediately halted play as medics rushed to attend to the coach before he was taken to a nearby hospital. The game briefly resumed, but tragedy struck when the referee stopped play again near half-time to deliver the devastating news that Zizovic had passed away.
Overcome with emotion, players from both teams collapsed to the turf, some sobbing uncontrollably while others sat motionless in disbelief. The referee subsequently abandoned the game as grief engulfed the stadium.
Zizovic had only recently taken charge of Radnicki 1923, overseeing his third match since being appointed on October 23. Before turning to coaching, he enjoyed a successful playing career as an attacking midfielder for Zrinjski Mostar and other Bosnian clubs.
In a heartfelt statement, the Football Association of Serbia (FAS) expressed its sorrow, writing:
“The Football Association of Serbia has received with deep sorrow and disbelief the news of the sudden death of FK Radnički 1923 coach Mladen Zizovic, who passed away during the Mozzart Bet Super League of Serbia match between Mladost and Radnicki 1923 in Lucani. His untimely departure represents a tremendous loss for the entire football community.”
Top Serbian club Red Star Belgrade also paid tribute, saying:
“We express our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mladen Zizovic, as well as to the members of Radnicki 1923. Rest in peace.”
Radnicki 1923, in their own message, described Zizovic as “a great coach and an even greater man”, adding that his passing leaves an irreplaceable void within the club.
The football world has continued to mourn the sudden and heartbreaking loss of a man remembered for his passion, leadership, and dedication to the game.
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