Goalkeeper Jesus Owono Suspended for 12 Matches After Striker’s Death

Jesus Owono, the goalkeeper for FC Andorra, has been suspended for 12 matches by the Spanish football federation. This decision came after a serious incident during a match on November 2, where Owono collided with Tenerife striker Jesus de Miguel, resulting in De Miguel’s death.

During the second division match, Owono was sent off for what the referee described as ‘violently striking an opponent in the chest with his leg, using excessive force.’ De Miguel, who was 30 years old, was hospitalized and placed in intensive care after the collision but tragically passed away the following day.

The disciplinary committee stated that the severity of the incident warranted the maximum penalty of a 12-match suspension. They emphasized that the tragic outcome was well-known and that the nature of Owono’s conduct justified the harsh sanction.

In a statement, Owono expressed his deep sorrow over De Miguel’s death, describing these days as the hardest of his life. He shared his pain for De Miguel’s family and friends, stating, ‘I feel immense pain over the loss of Jesus.’

FC Andorra’s coach, Carles Manso, indicated that it would be up to Owono to decide when he feels ready to return to football. Meanwhile, fans and players of Tenerife gathered for a memorial at the club’s stadium to honor De Miguel, who was laid to rest last Thursday.