After an automobile accident in Karlovac, Nikola Pokrivac, a former Croatian international, regrettably passed away at the age of 39. The defensive midfielder was allegedly engaged in a four-vehicle crash that also resulted in one other person’s death.
According to the Mirror, Pokrivac, who earned 15 caps for Croatia between 2008 and 2010, was reportedly riding in a car with three of his NK Vojnic ’95 colleagues. Pokrivac was among the two who were left in critical condition.
“It is impossible to find words of comfort in such a shocking and unimaginably sad moment when we have lost a young life,” the Croatian Football Federation said in a statement. Marijan Kustic, the president of the federation, added, “I can only express my deepest condolences to Nikola’s family and loved ones for this irreplaceable loss, and the HNS and the Croatian football family will stand by them in these most difficult moments.” “Nikola was an exceptional footballer who lived for football until his very last moment in this world, and who showed great courage in life by overcoming a cruel illness. This is a great loss for our football community, and especially painful for his family. Our prayers are with Nikola and his family.”
Pokrivac’s Former Clubs Pay Tribute on Social Media
Devastating news has shocked the football community
Before joining Dinamo Zagreb, one of Croatia’s most renowned football teams, in 2007, Pokrivac started his career at Varteks. After a year, he relocated to AS Monaco before joining Red Bull Salzburg.
On X, Monaco honoured their former player. “The club was saddened to learn of the death of its former midfielder Nikola Pokrivac,” the French team said in tears. AS Monaco sends its deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones.
“We mourn the loss of our former player Nikola Pokrivac, who tragically died in a car accident. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. Rest in peace, Nikola,” Red Bull Salzburg tweeted in a similar action.
“It is with great sadness and disbelief that we received the news of a serious traffic accident in Karlovac, in which, unfortunately, our former player Nikola Pokrivac lost his life,” Dinamo said on X in a similar tribute.
“As a gifted midfielder, a warrior on the pitch, and a kind man, Nikola will always be a part of the Dinamo family. He participated in four championship triumphs and three Cup Winners’ Cups during his 69 games with the Blues.
“His family and the families of everyone slain in this horrific accident have our deepest sympathies,” said GNK Dinamo. I hope he finds peace.
The Career History of Nikola Pokrivac
From 2002 to 2006
Varteks, NK
2003–2004
Medimurje (loan)
2007–2008
Zagreb Dinamo
2008–2009
Monaco AS
2009–2011
Salzburg Red Bull
2011–2013
Zagreb Dinamo
2013
Zapresic Inter (loan)
2013–2014
Rijeka HNK
2014–2015
Karagandy Shakhter
2015–2016
Tikva Maccabi Petah
2016–2017
Belupo, Slaven
2021–2023
Pusca
2023–2024
Tigar Sveta Nedelja of GNK
2024–2025
Vojnic ’95
In October 2010, Pokrivac last played for Croatia in a match against Norway. He was also a member of the team that advanced to the quarterfinals of Euro 2008 after defeating Germany in the group stages.
