The Serbian football community has been left reeling after FK Ibar manager Dragan Jovic tragically collapsed and died during a league match, prompting an emotional memorial service attended by his devastated players and staff.
A Fateful Match Turns Tragic
During what began as a routine Serbian Super League encounter between FK Ibar and Graficar Beograd, tragedy struck when 46-year-old manager Dragan Jovic suddenly collapsed on the sidelines. Medical personnel rushed to his aid, performing emergency resuscitation efforts for over thirty minutes before he was transported to a local medical facility.
Despite the best efforts of medical staff, Jovic was pronounced dead at the Medical Centre in Kraljevo, with reports indicating he suffered a fatal cardiac arrest.
Emotional Farewell from Heartbroken Team
Just days after the devastating incident, FK Ibar players and staff gathered for an emotional memorial service to honour their beloved manager. The team, still visibly shaken by the tragedy, stood united in their grief as they paid tribute to the man who had led them.
The match itself was immediately abandoned following Jovic's collapse, with the Serbian Football Federation expected to make a formal decision regarding the fixture's status in the coming days.
Football Community Rallies in Support
The tragic event has sent shockwaves through Serbian football, with clubs and supporters from across the country expressing their condolences. FK Ibar, based in the town of Kraljevo, now faces the challenging task of continuing their season while mourning their leader.
This incident marks another sobering moment in football, highlighting the vulnerability of even the fittest individuals to sudden cardiac events during sporting activities.
The club has requested privacy for Jovic's family and the players as they navigate this difficult period, with counselling services being made available to all affected staff members.
