Helena Božić: The football field is my home, and the Montenegro jersey is both pride and motivation

For Montenegrin footballer Helena Božić, playing for the national team is "the purest form of motivation", for her football is "home", and the path that led her from Nikšić through Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Finland and Russia, to China - is a path she would take again.

How does it feel to represent Montenegro on the international stage?

"It's the purest form of motivation when you go out on the field in a jersey with the national emblem. That's when adrenaline and pride come together, and that turns into energy that gives you the strength to give your best on the field, forgetting fear or fatigue," says Helena, reports Sportfem.

What is the most beautiful moment you have experienced in the Montenegrin jersey?

"The biggest impression on me was the match against Northern Ireland in Belfast. We played 1:1, and many wrote us off at that moment, thinking that such a rival was too big a deal for us. We bravely took to the field, had the victory in our hands, and in the end we drew, but deserved more. I think that match was crucial for us to realize that we are worth it. That match marked a turning point for the future, and after that match we achieved a huge success, by qualifying for the B Nations League."

What does it mean to you to be part of the generation that is pushing the boundaries of women's football in our country?

"It's great to be part of this team, because we are creating a foundation for generations to come. We are moving the standards of women's football in Montenegro and raising it to a higher level."

When did you realize that football was your sport of choice?

"I played other sports, but I always came back to football. I stopped twice, continued three times, and I definitely realized that I really love football, that the football field is my home where I feel peace and happiness. When I got the call from Red Star, I realized that football is my life."

Which country you played in has the most beautiful memories for you?

"All the countries I lived and played football in have remained wonderful memories for me. From Serbia, Slovakia, to Finland, Slovenia, but I think the biggest impression on me was left by Russia, and Dinamo Moscow, where I spent three years. I had the respect of the people from the club, the fans, and my stay at that club developed me both as a person and as a player."

When you think back to the beginning - would you be ready to follow the same path now?

"I would definitely continue on that path. There were many obstacles and challenges, but all of those challenges and obstacles made me grow as a person. I wouldn't change anything along the way."

A message to the new generations, girls who love football?

"A lot has changed, our results have led to a gradual understanding that football is not just for boys, but also for girls. Female players playing in European clubs show that Montenegro has talent, and more and more girls on the field are changing the perception of women's football in our country," concluded Božić.