Former Croatian midfielder Nikola Pokrivac has tragically passed away in a car accident at the young age of 39.
The former player for Monaco and RB Salzburg earned 15 caps for the Croatian national team between 2008 and 2010.
Pokrivac made a return to football in 2021 after overcoming Hodgkin`s lymphoma, which he was diagnosed with a decade prior.
He had been playing for fifth-tier team NK Vojnic, joining them last summer.
The fatal car crash involving Pokrivac occurred on Friday evening in the Croatian city of Karlovac and involved four vehicles.
According to local reports, three of Pokrivac`s Vojnic teammates were in the car with him and sustained serious injuries, requiring hospitalization.
Sadly, another person, aged 42, from a different vehicle also died in the collision.
The Croatian Football Federation confirmed the news of Pokrivac`s death on Saturday morning, stating he succumbed to his injuries.
Marijan Kustics, president of the CFF, expressed his condolences: “Nikola was an exceptional football player, deeply devoted to the sport until his very last moments. He demonstrated immense courage throughout his life, particularly in his battle against a serious illness.
“This is a profound loss for the football community, and an especially devastating time for his family. Words cannot adequately express the sorrow and shock we feel at losing such a young life.
“I extend my deepest sympathies to Nikola`s family and friends for this irreplaceable loss. The HNS and the entire Croatian football family stand with them during this incredibly difficult period.”
Pokrivac played against England twice during the qualification for the 2010 World Cup.
He was also part of the Croatian squad that reached the quarter-finals of Euro 2008.
Since his return to football in 2021, Pokrivac also dedicated his time to coaching youth teams.
His most successful playing period was with Dinamo Zagreb, where he won three Croatian league titles.
Dinamo Zagreb released a heartfelt statement on Saturday: “It is with immense sadness and disbelief that we learned of the tragic car accident in Karlovac in which our former player, Nikola Pokrivač, tragically lost his life.
“Nikola will forever be remembered as part of the Dinamo family – a talented midfielder, a true fighter on the field, and a man with a big heart.
“He made 69 appearances for the Blues, contributing to four championship titles and three Cup victories.
“GNK Dinamo extends its sincerest and deepest condolences to his family, as well as to the families of all victims of this tragic accident.”
Monaco, where Pokrivac played in 2008, also shared their condolences: “The Club is deeply saddened by the passing of former midfielder Nikola Pokrivac. AS Monaco sends its most sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.”
