#nemanja-matic

#nemanja-matic

While some people like to believe that football and politics should never mix, that is not a realistic stance in the current global landscape. And while international football can throw up some highly-charged contests between neighbours and rivals, few matches in recent history descended into chaos in the manner of Serbia's Euro 2016 qualifier against Albania in October 2014. The match was abandoned before half-time when a drone carrying a pro-Albania banner was flown on a drone above the stadium, causing crowd trouble in the stands.

In January 2011, as part of a deal that saw David Luiz move to Chelsea, Matic left for Benfica. In Portugal, Matic transformed into a formidable no.6. Under the guidance of manager Jorge Jesus, he was converted from a playmaker, and he was awarded the Primeira Liga Player of the Year for his performances during the 2012/13 season, also winning the Taca da Liga and the Primeira Liga with the Eagles.

However, Serbian midfielder Matic - who currently plays for Ligue 1 side Lyon - seemingly opposed the awareness initiative and chose to cover the logo on his shirt sleeve with a strip of white tape.