During a league fixture in Serbia, the 44-year-old head coach of Radnički 1923, Mladen Žižović, collapsed on the touchline and subsequently passed away. The match against Mladost Lučani was in progress when, around the 20th-plus minute mark, Žižović fell suddenly ill and was attended to by medical staff.
He was quickly transported to hospital, but tragically did not survive the journey. In the wake of his death, the match was halted and later abandoned amid scenes of shock and grief among players and staff.
Radnički 1923 released a statement expressing deep sorrow, calling Žižović “not only a great professional but above all a good person, friend and sports worker” whose energy and nobility left a lasting mark.
Žižović had only recently been appointed coach of Radnički (in October) and had a long playing career before moving into management. He is remembered for his passion for the game and the impact he had on players and organisations throughout the region.
