Recap: Zvezda no longer working with Ivanović, Partizan still without a pool

Crvena Zvezda has cut ties with coach Duško Ivanović, as both Zvezda and Partizan are on a losing streak ahead of the two derbies. In terms of water polo, Partizan remains without a defined training location, as the Serbian League continues. This and much more in the week’s sporting recap.

water polo cover
Photo: J.L.

Zvezda have confirmed on Saturday evening that they will no longer be working with Ivanović, who may return to Baskonia. The loudest replacement option in Belgrade seems to be Ioannis Sfairopoulos*, most known for his time in Olympiacos and Maccabi. In this scenario, Sfairopoulos would also bring in Khem Birch.

Fans hope the Greek coach can calm some of the locker-room tension amongst the Belgrade Red and Whites, correlating, but not causing their current 1-3 Euroleague score ahead of the two European derbies in four days. Both Delije and Grobari will be allowed entrance, for that extra kick.The first Derby is played on Oct 26th.

We’ll see.

On the Black and White side, Partizan were defeated by Olympiacos in Piraeus (98:94), after an expectedly tense R4 match. In terms of water polo, Partizan still don’t have a definitive home, given that the famous Banjica pool hasn’t been functional for over a month. This, however isn’t impeding the younger generations to create internationally recognised results. A confirmation of true love and dedication towards the sport, traditional for Serbian water polo.

Remaining in the waters of the country’s most award-winning sport

Niš-based Nais beat Taš in the 4th round of the Serbian National League (18:17), after a close match and a penalty shootout. A true treat for all water polo fans was also watched by experts including former Serbia captain and now Novi Beograd coach Živko Gocić. The young coach could rest after Novi Beograd beat Vojvodina 25:2.

In the ladies’ Water Polo Challenger Cup, Zvezda beat Bulgarian Lokomotiva, while Vojvodina were triumphant against Manchester.

Another beautiful piece of news is made by the talented Angelina Topić. The reigning U20 High Jump European Champion has been named the 2023 Rising Star! Angelina is the first Serbian to win a trophy at the Golden Tracks. This promising career keeps its wonderful pace.

To finish off the week – tennis

The young Hamad Međedović, currently ranked 102nd on the ATP list has confirmed that world No 1 Novak Đoković is helping him both through coaching advance and finance: “He has been helping me out financially. Giving me whatever I need for my career. He covered it all. He helped me out when I needed it and is still helping me out in all types of ways. I am glad he is there for me.”, said Međedović, as he is working towards advancing to the Top 100.

Stay with me as I continue to cover the world of sport and make sure to follow SidelineSRB on Instagram.

*Editor’s note: Since the publishing of this article, Crvena Zvezda have confirmed their contract with coach Ioannis Sfairopoulos who already lead his first training session in Belgrade.

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