Former LaLiga star dies aged 43 after two-year battle with brain cancer

FORMER LaLiga star Andrija Delibasic has died aged just 43 after a two-year battle with brain cancer.

The Montenegro striker scored in a 2-2 draw with England in a Euro 2012 qualifier in Podgorica.

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Delibasic played for Spanish clubs Real Mallorca, Real Sociedad, Hercules and Rayo Vallecano.

He won two Serbian titles with Partizan Belgrade, and played a small part in Benfica’s 2005 Portuguese league triumph.

Capped 21 times, Delibasic went on to coach Montenegrin club Mornar from 2021 to 2023.

He underwent surgery after being diagnosed with a brain tumour.

But home-country media revealed that he tragically passed away on Wednesday.

Delibasic’s former clubs were quick to pay tribute to the Niksic-born ace.

Hercules wrote: “We lament the passing of Andrija Delibasic. He was the key to our promotion to the Primera Liga in 2009-10.

“He scored 20 goals in two seasons for us.  We send our deepest condolences to his family and friends.”

Meanwhile Mallorca said: “We deeply regret the loss of our former player, Andrija Delibasic.

“We send our thoughts to his family and loved ones.”

Globe-trotting Delibasic also played for Portuguese clubs Braga and Beira-Mar as well as Greek big-hitters AEK Athens.

He had a spell with Thai club Ratchaburi before ending his playing career with Sutjeska, based in his home town Niksic.

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