In Memory of a Hero: Andrija Delibasic, like his 91st-Minute Goal, Will Forever Remain in Our Hearts
The pinnacle of football joy in Montenegro’s history: Delibasic nets a goal against England, bringing the score to 2:2. Photo credit: Savo Prelevic
Tragic news has once again shaken the nation of Montenegro – Andrija Delibasic, a beloved sports figure, has passed away at the young age of 44.
A remarkable footballer and an exceptional individual, he unfortunately succumbed to a serious illness, having been diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2023.
Though Andrija is no longer with us, his unforgettable goal against England in the 91st minute on October 7, 2011, for a notable 2:2 draw, will be etched in our memories forever, as will the spirit of a man who held a special place in the hearts of fans.
And it wasn’t solely because of that goal.
Delibasic was born in Sutjeska, where Partizan first recognized his talent when he was just a boy, joining them at the age of 14. He wore the black and white jersey from 1995 to 2004, and his goals in the Champions League against Porto (two goals) and Marseille will forever be remembered, as he was the sole scorer for the Belgrade club in UEFA’s top tier.
Following this period, he donned the jerseys of Mallorca, Benfica, Braga, AEK, Beira Mar, Sociedad, Hercules, Rayo Vallecano, Ratchaburi, and eventually, he returned briefly to his roots at Sutjeska.
Aside from Partizan, he made his most significant impact in Vallecas.
On the national stage, he was a member of the talented Serbia and Montenegro squad that reached the final of the 2004 U-21 European Championship, and afterward represented Montenegro following its independence.
He debuted for the “Falcons” on October 10, 2009, against Georgia in Gorica, instantly winning everyone’s hearts by scoring the decisive goal in World Cup qualifiers.
Two years later, he scored the most iconic goal in the history of our national team, heading the ball past Joe Hart to secure a point against the birthplace of football (2:2) and leading Montenegro into the play-offs for Euro 2012.
After hanging up his boots, he attempted coaching and later took on the role of sports director at Budućnost.
He approached this new position with the same passion and commitment he exhibited on the pitch, but life—as beautiful as it was on that October day in 2011—can sometimes be unjust.
Andrija departed too soon, but the familiar chant still echoes from the stands of Gorica: Andrija, Andrija, Delibašić Andrija.
This chant will always resonate, as Montenegro is obliged to honor the memory of a legendary footballer and an extraordinary person.
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