On a rainy October night in 2011, as if to add an extra layer of significance to the historic match taking place, Montenegro faced off against the formidable football nation of England.

The “Falcons” were desperate to secure at least a draw, a result that would allow them to reach the play-offs of a major tournament for the first time.

As the clock approached the grim 90-minute mark with Montenegro trailing 2:1, the visiting fans were already singing “God Save the Queen.” But in that crucial moment, a future legend of Montenegrin football emerged, ready to shape one of the most memorable nights in the nation’s history.

With his characteristic fearlessness, Andrija Delibasic broke through the England defense, headed the ball towards Joe Hart’s goal, narrowly missing the post, and etched his name into folklore – igniting a celebration under Gorica that would be forever remembered, despite the English flags surrounding the stands.

In that pivotal moment, transcending other sports and achievements, Andrija united Montenegro in an unprecedented embrace, whether they were in the stadium or watching from afar.

Even back then, he might have sensed that he had carved out an eternal legacy for himself, living on in the hearts of fans even after that fateful day on March 19th when he left us far too early.

The great Andrija, representing one of the smallest countries in Europe, secured a monumental point against a nation where football is nothing short of a way of life, making headlines in English newspapers and beyond that evening.

“Delibasic equalized at 2:2, making it look almost effortless, though it clearly wasn’t,” noted the British Telegraph at the time, adding: “This was an absolutely historic draw for the hosts, the giants from Montenegro.”

Glenn Hoddle, a legend of Tottenham and England, described the atmosphere at Gorica to the UK media as nothing short of incredible.

“Saying that Delibasic overshadowed England’s qualifiers would be an understatement, even though ‘proud Albion’ will still advance to the Euros. While home fans poured onto the pitch celebrating with their heroes, the English players left the field disappointed at conceding a last-minute equalizer,” reported the Daily Mail.

“Thanks to Delibasic’s goal, Montenegro rightfully earned their spot in the play-offs for the European Championship,” the Guardian added.

The unforgettable night was perhaps captured best by the Independent.

“What a night it was! Montenegro only equalized in injury time through Andrija Delibasic, securing a second-place finish in the group and the much-deserved play-off spot. The stadium erupted, and post-match, fans rushed onto the field. This small nation certainly earned this result.”

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