Buried His Daughter, Then Won the Cup with Hajduk in Belgrade: 'Tuđman Drove Me Away Because of 'Hej Slaveni''

The story of Milija Hadžiabdić, as told in this feature, is a powerful and deeply moving account of personal tragedy intertwined with sporting history. Playing in the 1991 Yugoslav Cup final, just six days after the devastating loss of his 10-month-old daughter, Romana, is an act of immense strength and dedication that resonates profoundly. This personal sacrifice, set against the backdrop of a crucial match for Hajduk Split—their last Yugoslav trophy—highlights the extraordinary pressures faced by athletes during tumultuous times.

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In that match, I was the only player on the field who placed his hand on his heart during the playing of the Yugoslav anthem 'Hej, Slaveni.' No other Hajduk or Crvena Zvezda player did that. And then the order came from the president of the state, Tuđman, to remove me from Hajduk. I know this for sure, it's the living truth!

Hadžiabdić's courageous act of placing his hand on his heart during the Yugoslav anthem, a gesture not mirrored by any other player on the field, speaks volumes about his convictions and his position amidst the complex political climate of the era. His subsequent removal from the Hajduk team, allegedly by order of President Tuđman, underscores the sensitive intersection of sports, politics, and national identity in the former Yugoslavia. This detail is particularly significant, offering a glimpse into the political machinations that could influence even the sporting world, a perspective often missed in broader international coverage that focuses solely on the game.

Reflecting on his career, Hadžiabdić's narrative reveals a complex relationship with Hajduk, marked by both emotional attachment and professional disappointment, such as the failed transfer to Swansea City due to inflated demands. His life after football, now residing near Düsseldorf and involved in football management, adds another layer to his story, showing a continued connection to the sport despite the hardships. His willingness to share such a difficult chapter of his life, driven by a desire to speak his truth, is commendable.

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I played that final and after it, I was removed from the team. The late Stanko Poklepović called me for a conversation, the late Katalinić and the late Mijač were present, and told me: 'Forgive me, Mili, you are a good man, you are a super player, I am sorry, but you have to leave Hajduk.'

From our perspective at Večernji List, this story is more than just a sports anecdote; it's a human drama that captures a specific moment in Croatian and Yugoslav history. It emphasizes the personal costs of political tensions and the resilience of the human spirit. While global media might focus on the match result or the political breakup of Yugoslavia, we highlight the individual stories like Hadžiabdić's, which provide a more nuanced and emotionally resonant understanding of that era and its impact on people's lives.

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I am glad to talk about it, just to get it all out of me...