Andorra Goalkeeper Jesus Owono Banned for 12 Matches After Fatal Clash

Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono has been suspended for 12 matches by the Spanish Football Federation disciplinary committee, ten days after the death of Tenerife striker Jesus de Miguel. The fatal incident occurred following a violent on-pitch collision between the two players.

The tragic collision took place near the end of a match held in Tenerife on November 2. De Miguel, who was 30 years old, chased a high ball in midfield when Owono rushed far out of his penalty area and collided with him forcefully. The blow to the striker's chest caused him to suffer a cardiac arrest on the pitch. Despite medical efforts, he passed away the following day in the hospital. The goalkeeper received a direct red card for the severe challenge.

Owono, devastated by the event, released a statement expressing profound sorrow. "These are the hardest days of my life," he wrote. "I am struggling to find words and process what happened. I feel immense pain over the loss of Jesus. I am thinking of him, his family, and everyone who loved him. I know I will face whatever comes with utmost respect, but right now I can think of nothing except this immense pain."

Investigation and Uncertain Future

Following the incident, Spanish police launched an investigation into suspected manslaughter, as required by local law in cases of unnatural death. However, prosecutors noted that criminal charges are unlikely to be filed. Meanwhile, Andorra coach Carles Manso stated that Owono is "profoundly affected by the situation" and that the club will give him space to decide when he is ready to return to play. The goalkeeper was also left out of the Equatorial Guinea national team squad.

The 12-match ban is one of the harshest penalties handed down in Spanish football in recent years, reflecting the tragic outcome of the collision. Owono's professional future remains unclear as he deals with the personal and disciplinary consequences of the severe incident.