The memory of former Montenegrin national football team player Andrija Delibašić will always be cherished, as was expressed at a tribute session held at the Montenegrin National Theatre.

Delibišić passed away on Wednesday following a prolonged illness.

During the tribute, his son Andrej, Sutjeska Football Club president Boris Rašković, Budućnost captain Petar Grbić, Partizan Belgrade working group member and teammate Danko Lazović, and Football Association of Montenegro president Dejan Savićević all took the opportunity to pay their respects.

Montenegro’s President Jakov Milatović and Minister of Sports and Youth Dragoslav Šćekić also attended to honor him.

– Dear Dad, I am here today with immense pride as your son. You were the cornerstone of our family, an exemplary figure for all, especially for me. Your successes and goals shaped my upbringing, and I often recall the times you shared stories of your matches. You taught me the essence of honor, hard work, and resilience. I am incredibly proud of your fight, which persisted until your last days. While a new chapter begins for us, your love will be with us forever. Thank you for everything you’ve done for me and our family. I will always remember your words: “Be a good man, and only then a good player,” Andrej Delibašić shared.

Delibišić was also celebrated by former teammates and friends, including Saša Ilić, Mitar Novaković, Branko Bošković, Milorad Peković, Miodrag Džudović, Srđan Radonjić, Vlado Jeknić, Luka Pejović, and Sanibal Orahovac.

The commemoration saw attendance from both former and current members of the Montenegrin national team, staff, and players from Budućnost and Sutjeska, along with many other athletes and sports professionals.

– Today we bid farewell to a man who made an everlasting impression, not just on the football field but in the hearts of all of us. Andrija Delibašić was a remarkable football player; however, unlike many professionals who pursued careers abroad, Andrija chose to end his career with Sutjeska. This speaks volumes about his character and his affection for his hometown of Nikšić and the club where he started. His journey from Nikšić to the pinnacle of European football is a narrative of commitment and passion for the game, stated Sutjeska president Boris Rašković.

The president and officials of the Federation stood alongside the family throughout this tribute to their beloved striker.

– I speak to you today not just on behalf of the Partizan Football Club, but as Andrija’s godfather, friend, and former teammate. With deep sorrow yet immense pride, we gather to say our final goodbyes. We remember his smile, vibrant spirit, and youthful sincerity that he shared with everyone. On behalf of myself and the Partizan Football Club, along with our millions of fans, I express my profound gratitude and respect for the man I cherished, who enriched our lives and left an unforgettable mark, said Danko Lazović.

The scorer of the historic goal that led England to qualify for the European Championship play-offs lost his battle with a severe illness after two years.

In March 2023, while coaching the Mariners, he was diagnosed with a brain tumor.

Following emergency surgery, during a match against Serbia, Montenegro supporters displayed a banner that read, “Andrija, win once more.” Clubs such as Rayo Vallecano, Real Sociedad, Hercules, and Mallorca, as well as La Liga, rallied behind him in his fight for life.

– Forgive my emotions; there are too many when saying goodbye to someone who feels like part of us. I can’t bid farewell to someone who embodies my essence, my career… my role model. Yet, I can take pride in all of it! Saying goodbye is never easy, especially to someone we love dearly. I’ve never faced this before; I don’t even know how to begin, particularly with your image behind me, expressed Budućnost captain Petar Grbić.

– My dear brother, that’s what I called you when emotions overwhelmed me during our time together in the national team. Over the years, our closeness deepened, and our friendship grew. I chose not to allow anyone else to write my speech! Had I known how daunting this would be, how memories would flood back, leaving me momentarily speechless… Maybe I should have, but no… because then I would feel your half-smile, your gentle voice, your gentlemanly presence, and hear the words “come on Grbo, be brave.” Just like you were, always there when needed, Grbić recounted.

After his surgery, Delibašić made a return to football, taking on the role of sports director for Budućnost during the summer, where he appointed Serbian expert Mladen Milinković as head coach, having previously served as his assistant on the Podgorica bench.

Regrettably, the illness returned, and this time, there was no option for recovery.

Delibašić will be remembered for that iconic goal against England, his goal against Georgia marking the first victory for the “brave falcons” in official matches, and for scoring three times in the Champions League during the 2003/2004 season while donning the Partizan jersey, two of which were against the eventual European champions, Porto, managed by José Mourinho.

– His untimely passing has left us in profound grief, but also with cherished memories of his exceptional career and humanity. Andrija Delibašić was not only a top-tier footballer who captured many hearts with his talent and dedication, but also a kind-hearted individual who enriched every locker room, every match, and every city he graced with his presence. His unwavering dedication and passion for football inspired many, while his courage and perseverance symbolized the strength of a team. His name will always be etched in golden letters in the history of Montenegrin football. We owe him gratitude for everything he contributed to our sport, our community, and all of us who looked up to him. His legacy will serve as a beacon for future generations of footballers, teaching them the importance of dedication not only to their craft but also to those around them. Each time our national team, your “falcons,” plays, the echoes of your name and the chants from our fans will resound – Andrija, Andrija, Delibašić Andrija! Once again, on behalf of the Football Association of Montenegro and the entire Montenegrin football family, I extend my condolences to the Delibašić family and my heartfelt gratitude for everything that Andrija was and will forever be for us, stated Dejan Savićević, president of the FSCG.

Delibašić’s burial is scheduled for today at 3 p.m. at the City Cemetery in Nikšić.

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