Former Real Madrid coach Miljan Miljanic dies

Miljan Miljanic, a Serb who once coach Real Madrid, Yugoslavia and Red Star Belgrade, died Friday, the Serbian football federation said. He was 81.



Miljanic won four league titles and three cups with Red Star between 1966 and 1974 during the glory days of Yugoslav football. He then captured back-to-back Spanish titles and a Copa del Rey trophy with Real Madrid between 1974 and 1977.



Miljanic later coached at Valencia but was fired after poor results during the 1982-83 season.

Miljanic, known for his defensive tactics and reliance on experienced players, also coached the Yugoslav national team, taking it to the 1974 and 1982 World Cups.



Belgrade media said he died after a long battle with cancer.