Players crying as manager succumbs amid match

Team members dropped to their knees weeping as they learned of their coach's passing during a match in Serbia's top flight

FK Radnicki 1923 coach the former international collapsed and was given medical attention beside the field before being rushed to a healthcare center during his club's fixture at Mladost Lucani on recently

The top-tier contest went on but was called off just prior to half-time when word of Zizovic's death got to the venue

Video of the contest showed team members and personnel from the competing clubs in distress at the news

Previously a Bosnian international player, 44, was just named manager of the football club on 23 October

"Our club has suffered the loss of not only a great professional but above all a wonderful human being, a friend, and a sportsman who, with his knowledge, energy and nobility has created lasting memories on the emotions of all who were acquainted with him"

The national football governing body said its "football community has lost another genuine soccer expert" with his demise

"During his extensive athletic journey, the coach was part of multiple teams in the Premier League of Bosnia and Herzegovina, especially Zrinjski Mostar, FK Radnik Bijeljina and a third organization, and he also wore the uniform of the national squad"

"Upon completing his athletic journey, he dedicated himself to coaching, directing teams in the area and the region"

"The premature death signifies a significant blow for the national sports community"

"The passion for football and the mark you left will remain with us forever"

Prominent teams also paid tribute, including Red Star Belgrade, who conveyed their "heartfelt sorrow"