Serbian football has been left in mourning following a devastating tragedy on the pitch. Mladen Žižović, head coach of FK Radnički 1923, collapsed and died during a Serbian SuperLiga match, leaving players and supporters in disbelief.
European football awoke to heartbreaking news as it was confirmed that Žižović, aged 45, suffered a fatal cardiac arrest during his team’s league match against Mladost in Lučani.
The incident occurred in the 22nd minute, when the coach suddenly collapsed near the technical area. Medical personnel immediately rushed to his aid and attempted to revive him with CPR. After several minutes of resuscitation efforts, he was taken to a nearby hospital.
🇧🇦🇷🇸 | Sırbistan Süper Ligi ekibi Radnicki 1923’ün teknik direktörü Mladen Zizovic, deplasmanda oynanan Mladost Lucani maçı sırasında geçirdiği kalp krizi sonrası hayatını kaybetti.
44 yaşındaki teknik adam, maçın 22. dakikasında aniden yere yığıldı. Hastaneye kaldırılan… pic.twitter.com/slGoGJj1aw
— Balkan Futbolu (@BalkanFutbolu) November 4, 2025
Shortly afterwards, officials confirmed the tragic news that Žižović had not survived. The announcement sent shockwaves through the stadium as Radnički players broke down in tears on the field.
The match, which had continued briefly while medical attention was ongoing, was suspended once his death was confirmed. Players from both sides left the pitch visibly distraught, as fans stood in silence and applause echoed through the stands in a mark of respect.
The Football Association of Serbia (FSS) released an emotional statement expressing its grief:
“The Football Association of Serbia has received with great sadness and disbelief the news of the sudden death of Mladen Žižović, who passed away during the Mozzart Bet SuperLiga match between Mladost and Radnički 1923 in Lučani. His untimely passing represents a great loss for the entire football community.”
