Deli will not be forgotten: "He carried his career quietly and with dignity"

Emotions ahead of football, rivalry and absolutely everything else - that's how the first Andrija Delibašić Memorial Tournament, held in his hometown of Nikšić, went.

The legendary Montenegrin striker, the scorer of the goal against England that is so far the most important in history, passed away on March 19th of last year, but in these 12 months it has probably become clear to everyone that Deli's character and work are hard to forget.

That's how it is in Nikšić, Podgorica, Belgrade... Wherever Andrija left his mark, whether as a player, coach or official.

"Andrija, Andrija, Delibašić Andrija" - was heard from the stands of the Nikšić City Stadium when the football players of Sutjeska, Buducnost and Partizan ran onto the field.

Before the start of the memorial, Sutjeska president Miomir Ljaka Bakrač presented the number nine jersey to Andrija's son Andrej Delibasic, and the tournament was opened by football players from Sutjeska and Budućnost.

Before that, Andrija's father Slavko gave a speech, while Andrija's daughter Dorotea took the kick-off from the center.

- Andrija was our son, brother, father, husband, friend, football player, coach, but above all he was a man. It must be known how much kindness and spirit he carried within him. We are proud that so many people felt that heart and heard his beautiful, soothing words - said father Slavko.

Andrija was loved by everyone who knew him.

- The biggest lesson I taught him is that we are all equal in this world, that everyone should be given a chance and attention. It is impossible to highlight in a short time everything that Andrija has done in his rich football life. We all know that well, so I will not burden you with it. His name will be written in capital letters in the history of these clubs, as well as all the clubs and national teams he played for - Slavko emphasized.

Partizan's general manager Danko Lazović, Andrija Delibasic's best man, was also emotional.

- Andrija is someone who left a big mark on my life. He welcomed me to Partizan, was always by my side, and I am very glad to be a part of Partizan participating in this tournament. Andrija was so humble and dignified, and that's how he left - Lazović said through tears to TV Arena Sport.

He also remembers one of his last conversations with Deli.

- He told me then that he would like to sit in the box where Tito sat, because he had been through everything in his career at the Partizan stadium, but he had never sat there. I told him: "My godfather, you will sit where Tito sat". Unfortunately, it did not happen, his wish was not fulfilled, but I have the impression that he is still there. It remains engraved in my mind that Andrija carried his career quietly and with dignity, and that is the path that younger generations must follow - said Lazović.

Partizan won the trophy after defeating Buducnost on penalties (4:2, after 0:0 in 45 minutes), and then Sutjeska 1:0. The tournament was opened by the biggest Montenegrin clubs - Sutjeska celebrated 1:0 with a goal by young Matija Gardašević.

The overall impression was not spoiled even by the extensive security measures after the clash between Sutjeska and Partizan fans on Tuesday evening in the town near Trebjes and the incident which, of course, had nothing to do with the memorial.

During the tournament, only Partizan fans were present at the stadium, in the western stands; the most ardent supporters of Sutjeska and Budućnost were absent.