April 19, 2025: Former Croatian footballer Nikola Pokrivac tragically passed away in a car accident, as confirmed by the Croatian Football Federation (HNS) on Instagram. The news has shocked the football world and his fans alike.
In a statement shared by Marijan Kustic, the president of HNS, heartfelt condolences were extended to Pokrivac’s family. He described the loss as unimaginable, remembering Pokrivac as a courageous and talented footballer who had a deep passion for the sport, even after battling a serious illness that had forced him to retire from professional football in 2015.
The accident occurred on Friday evening in Karlovac, and Pokrivac’s sudden passing has left the football community in mourning. Known for his time at Dinamo Zagreb, Monaco, and Salzburg, where he won a league title in 2010, Pokrivac made 15 appearances for the Croatian national team. Despite his early retirement, he continued to play football at the amateur level.
His loss is deeply felt, and the Croatian football community and fans are paying tribute to a player who gave his all to the sport.