THIS is the heartbreaking moment Serbian players fell to the turf after discovering their manager had died from a heart attack mid-game.
The country was sent into mourning this weekend after Radnicki 1923 manager during their game against Mladost.
Serbian top flight players collapsed to the turf after discovering their manager had died mid matchCredit: Balkan Futbolu
Mladen Zizovic suffered a heart attack 22 minutes into the game and tragically died on his way to the hospitalCredit: Getty
It came just 22 minutes into the match on Sunday evening, with medics rushing onto the field to give him urgent treatment.
Play was immediately suspended to allow Zizovic to receive care before he was taken to hospital.
The referee decided to resume the game, but just 20 minutes later it was tragically confirmed he had passed away while on his way to the hospital.
Heartbreaking footage shows both sets of players sink to their knees, with many on the floor and others in tears.
Some can be seen with their heads on the floor in disbelief while others took a knee in respect.
The stadium was filled with silence as players, staff and fans took in what had happened.
Radnicki later issued a statement expressing their “deep pain and disbelief” over Zizovic’s death.
The club said: “A man who left a deep mark wherever he worked with his knowledge, calmness and nobility,’ the statement read.
“Although he spent a short time in Kragujevac, he managed to gain the respect of everyone at the club, among players, associates and fans, with his energy, professionalism and human qualities.
“FK Radnički 1923 expresses its deepest condolences to the family, friends and everyone who knew Mladen.
“His dedication to football, passion for the game, and human warmth will forever remain etched in the memories of all who had the honor of knowing him.
“Rest in peace, Mladen.”
Zizovic was a former Bosnia international who had only taken charge of the team on October 23.
The Mladost fixture was just his third match in charge and his passing led to an outpouring of grief across Serbia.
A Serbian FA statement said: “The 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.
“Rest in peace, Mladen. Your love for football and the legacy you left behind will remain with us forever.”
Serbian giants Partizan Belgrade added: “With sadness, we received the news that Radnicki’s coach from Kragujevac, Mladen Zizovic, has suddenly passed away.
