FC Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono has been handed a 12-match suspension by the Spanish football federation's disciplinary committee following a challenge that led to the death of Tenerife forward Jesus de Miguel. The incident occurred during a second-tier match on 2 November, when Owono collided with De Miguel in the closing stages. Owono, 25, was sent off for violent conduct, and De Miguel passed away the following day at the age of 30.
Disciplinary Committee's Decision
The committee stated that its decision was based on the facts recorded in the referee's report, which described Owono's action as "violently striking an opponent in the chest with his leg, using excessive force, while the ball was in play." The report also acknowledged the tragic outcome that resulted in De Miguel's death. The committee concluded that the nature of the conduct and the surrounding circumstances warranted the maximum sanction of a 12-match suspension.
Match Abandoned, Result Stands
The match, which was level at 2-2 when the incident occurred seven minutes into stoppage time, was abandoned. The federation has decided that the game will not be replayed, and the draw will stand. A committee spokesperson explained that this was the "most respectful course of action, given the extraordinary and tragic circumstances of this case," and it avoids resuming play from the exact moment of the tragedy.
Owono's Future in Doubt
Owono, who represents Equatorial Guinea at international level, expressed his anguish in a statement released by FC Andorra on 4 November, saying he was experiencing "the most difficult days" of his life and felt "enormous pain" over De Miguel's death. On Thursday, FC Andorra manager Carles Manso revealed that Owono has not yet decided whether he will return to football. Manso said the goalkeeper is currently with his family and is "completely free to make any decision" about his future. "What we have to do is support him in every way and be close to him," Manso added. "We will give him space so that he feels completely free to make any decision, whether he wants to return, when, or if he does not want to return."
The football community has been left shaken by the tragedy, and Owono's suspension serves as a stark reminder of the consequences that can arise from on-field actions. As the player takes time to contemplate his next steps, the focus remains on supporting him and honoring the memory of Jesus de Miguel.
