Pausing at 59 Minutes: Wales World Cup Qualifier Honors Victims of North Macedonia Nightclub Tragedy

The World Cup qualifier between North Macedonia and Wales faced a momentary pause in the 59th minute as players and fans paid their respects to the victims of a tragic nightclub fire.

Earlier this month, a catastrophic fire at Club Pulse in Kocani led to the loss of 59 lives.

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The fire, which was sparked by pyrotechnics during a performance, also injured 155 others.

The people of North Macedonia were deeply impacted by this disaster, leading to a tribute at their first home match of the year.

During the World Cup qualifier against Wales, referee Jerome Brisard paused the game at the 59-minute mark to remember the 59 victims of the nightclub tragedy.

Players and fans at the Tose Proeski Arena honored the moment with a minute of applause.

Many supporters lit up the stands by activating their phone lights.

Once the tribute concluded, play resumed with a drop-ball for Wales.

Wales head coach Craig Bellamy, reflecting on the tragedy before the match, commented, “We haven’t addressed it directly, but the players are aware of it.

“I extend my condolences to the families and the people of North Macedonia.

“Discussing football during such times is difficult, but we are here to compete, and I fully respect the situation.

“As a nation, we have encountered our own tragedies and sympathize with what they are experiencing. I want them to know that everyone in Wales supports them.

“For 90 minutes, I hope that we and North Macedonia can provide a brief respite from these events.

“Even if it’s just for a fleeting moment. Because life is precious, and we are here to play football.”

North Macedonia appeared destined for a win after Bojan Miovski netted a goal in the 91st minute.

However, David Brooks managed to equalize in the dying seconds, securing a point for Wales.