Devastated players collapsed to the floor after being told their 44-year-old manager had died during a match.
Mladen Zizovic, managed of Serbian top-flight side Radnicki 1923, collapsed on the side of the pitch after suffering a suspected heart attack in the first half of his side’s game against Mladost.
The match was paused while Zizovic received medical treatment and was rushed to a nearby hospital, but the game surprisingly continued shortly after.
With half-time approaching, the referee paused the game again, this time to inform the players that Zizovic had died.
Players on both teams collapsed to the ground upon hearing the devastating news, with others rallying around their teammates for support.
Several players were in tears and sat crestfallen on the pitch as the referee abandoned the game.
Zizovic was taking charge of just his third game at Radnicki 1923 following his appointment on October 23.
A former attacking midfielder, Zizovic spent most of his career at Zrinjski Mostar and earned two international caps for Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Paying tribute to Zizovic, the Serbian FA said: ‘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.
‘The Football Association of Serbia expresses its deepest condolences to the Zizovic family, the members of FK Radnicki 1923, as well as all friends and admirers of his character and work.
‘Rest in peace, Mladen. Your love for football and the legacy you left behind will remain with us forever.’
More to follow…
