FC Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono, involved in a collision that led to the death of CD Tenerife player Jesus de Miguel, is reportedly not facing criminal sanctions. The incident occurred during a Spanish second division match between CD Tenerife and Andorra FC, which was abandoned following the foul. De Miguel, 30, was admitted to intensive care and later passed away.
Owono's challenge, described as a 'flying knee' to De Miguel's chest as the goalkeeper attempted to clear the ball, resulted in Owono being sent off. Reports suggest the action was a mistimed, excessive, but unintentional foul. Owono has reportedly expressed deep remorse and intended to personally apologize to De Miguel's family.
Following the incident, Owono has faced intense backlash, including chants of 'murderer' from spectators, leading him to close his social media accounts. New footage has emerged showing Owono confronting fans as he left the pitch. Spanish newspaper AS reports that while sporting penalties are likely, criminal charges are not anticipated. Under disciplinary rules, such an offense could result in a suspension of four to 12 games, with reports suggesting a ban of eight to 12 games is probable.
De Miguel, who became a father last year, was reportedly revived in the ambulance after suffering a cardiac arrest en route to the hospital. CD Tenerife confirmed his death, expressing profound grief and extending condolences to his family and loved ones. Tributes have poured in from across the football world, with UEFA announcing a minute of silence at all matches and the Royal Spanish Football Federation canceling domestic games for the day.
Owono, a 25-year-old Equatorial Guinea international, has played in Spain's top flight and joined Andorra permanently this summer. De Miguel had a successful tenure with Tenerife, helping them achieve promotion, and previously contributed to promotions for Internacional de Madrid and CD Castellón.