- Nikola Pokrivac, a former Croatian national team player, has tragically died at the age of 39 in Karlovac.
- The ex-Shakhter Karagandy midfield player was apparently part of a four-car crash on April 18.
- Pokrivac represented multiple European teams such as Red Bull Salzburg, Dinamo Zagreb, and he particularly excelled during his time at Puskas Akademia FC.
Nikola Pokrivac, a prominent Croatian soccer player, tragically died at the age of 39 after being involved in a serious automobile crash on Friday, April 18.
The ex-Croatia U21 player was traveling with three previous teammates from NK Vojnic, with two still in serious condition.
Pokrovic was also included in the Croatian team that notably beat Germany during the group stage of UEFA Euro 2008.
Croatia FF honors Pokrivac
The Croatian Football Federation, known as the CFF, honored their 2010 FIFA World Cup midfielder through a post on social media.
As reported by the Daily Mail, the President of CFF stated that the passing away represents a profound sorrow for their football community. He mentioned:
At this profoundly shocking and unbearably sorrowful time, when we have lost a young life, it is impossible to find words of solace.
I can only extend my sincerest sympathies to Nikola’s family and close relatives regarding this irreplaceable loss. The Croatian Football Federation and the broader Croatian football community will stand beside them during these incredibly challenging times.
Nikola was an exceptional footballer, devoted to the game till his final breath, and demonstrated remarkable bravery in facing a severe illness throughout his life.
The player competed for Croatia at both the U19 and U21 levels as a midfielder, accumulating 39 caps in total.
He participated in the UEFA Euro 2008 finals and subsequently played in the 2010 FIFA World Cup as reported by Football London.
Despite earning 15 appearances for the senior national side, the ex-AS Monaco player failed to score a goal.
Clubs, fans mourn Pokrivac
Monaco and Red Bull Salzburg have taken the lead in honoring the Croatian ace with their tributes.
The club expressed sorrow over the passing of ex-midfielder Nikola Pokrivac, as stated in the Monaco announcement.
"We deeply regret the passing of our ex-player Nikola Pokrivac, who sadly lost his life in a car crash. Our hearts go out to his loved ones. May he rest in peace, Nikola," Red Bull Salzburg posted on Twitter.
Selmir Draganovic said:
First, he fought against cancer—twice—and then came this accident. He will forever remain our hero, particularly for our Dinamo Zagreb! ๐
Rest in peace, dear Nikola! ๐ฏ️๐
Matej Duckic wrote:
Nikola Pokrivac; he conquered cancer thrice and is now facing this new challenge."
Info Atx added:
Repose in Peace, Nikola Pokrivac
We are profoundly distressed to learn about the heartbreaking death of ex-Croatian national team player Nikola Pokrivaฤ in a vehicular crash.
Ludovic Robin posited:
All genuine sympathies go out to his family, loved ones, and AS Monaco. Rest in peace, Nikola Pokrivac ๐️๐๐ผ"
Chinese soccer player passes away at 19
According to Diwidi >.ng, a young Chinese football player passed away just a few hours shy of his 19th birthday following several months in a coma due to a head injury sustained during a game in Spain.
Guo Jiaxuan participated in a worldwide young footballer program initiated by Bayern Munich. He represented the Beijing Guoan youth squad up until he passed away last month.
