Mladen Žižović, Head Coach of Serbian Top-Flight Club Radnički 1923, Dies After Collapsing Mid-Match
In a heartbreaking incident that has sent shockwaves through Serbian football and beyond, Mladen Žižović, the 44-year-old manager of Serbian SuperLiga club Radnički 1923, tragically died after collapsing on the sidelines during a match against Mladost Lučani on Sunday evening, November 3, 2025.
The unexpected medical emergency happened just 22 minutes into the game when Žižović, who had been in his role for only 11 days after being appointed on October 23, suddenly collapsed. Immediate medical intervention took place on the pitch before he was rushed to a hospital, but despite efforts to save him, he passed away shortly after the game resumed. The match was initially stopped after his collapse but restarted briefly before news of his death reached the stadium, leading to its abandonment amid visible grief and disbelief from players, staff, and spectators.
Žižović was well respected in the football community, having previously represented Bosnia and Herzegovina internationally as a player. He played for several notable clubs including Borac Banja Luka and Radnik Bijeljina, and after retiring, transitioned into a coaching career managing several teams in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia. His dedication to football, both on the field and on the sidelines, earned him admiration for his knowledge, passion, and integrity. Radnički 1923 issued a statement mourning the loss of “not only an outstanding professional but, more importantly, a good man, a friend whose knowledge, passion, and integrity left a profound impact on everyone who knew him”.
Eyewitnesses recount the intense moment players from both teams collapsed to the ground upon hearing the news, overwhelmed by grief. Videos circulating on social media capture the raw emotion and tragic atmosphere that engulfed the stadium. The Football Association of Serbia lauded Žižović’s legacy, saying, “Your passion for the game and the legacy you have left will stay with us forever.” Other prominent Serbian clubs such as Red Star Belgrade also extended heartfelt condolences to his family, players, and the club.
Radnički 1923 is a historically significant club based in Kragujevac, Serbia, competing in the Serbian SuperLiga, with a rich legacy dating back to its founding in 1923. Currently, Radnički 1923 is mid-table in the SuperLiga and adapts to challenges under emerging leadership. Žižović’s death not only stuns the club but deeply affects the league and football communities in the region, emphasizing the vulnerability even within professional sports.
Žižović’s sudden passing is a poignant reminder about the importance of health monitoring in competitive sports. It opens urgent conversations about medical preparedness and emergency response protocols in football matches. His legacy as a dedicated football professional and beloved coach will inspire many in the football world. The immediate future for Radnički 1923 involves mourning and regrouping while honoring his memory and continuing the club’s sporting efforts.
In conclusion, the football world mourns a tragic loss with the death of Mladen Žižović, whose life and career left a lasting impact in Serbian and Balkan football. His untimely passing mid-match is a somber moment for sport and humanity alike. The focus now turns to Radnički 1923 as they navigate this difficult period and to the football community’s ongoing commitment to safety and wellbeing of all involved in the sport
