By Salma El-Sakka
Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono is deeply affected after the death of Tenerife forward Jesus de Miguel following an on-pitch collision during a Spanish second division match on Monday. De Miguel, 30, suffered a cardiac arrest after Owono raced out of his goal and struck him forcefully; Owono was sent off for the challenge. Spanish police have opened an investigation into possible involuntary manslaughter, though the chief prosecutor in Santa Cruz de Tenerife said criminal proceedings are "very unlikely" under standard legal practice.
Teammate Defends Owono
Andorra defender Lautaro Spatz posted a tribute to De Miguel on Instagram while defending his teammate. Spatz described the tragedy as leaving the squad "completely broken" and emphasized that Owono "would never intend to hurt anyone," adding that the goalkeeper is suffering immensely. Owono has since deleted his social media account.
Tenerife Declares Mourning
Tenerife announced six days of official mourning. Fans gathered at the club's Heliodoro Rodriguez Lopez stadium to lay tributes, and a memorial service for the striker will be held there on Saturday evening. The club's statement expressed solidarity with De Miguel's devastated family and loved ones.
Matches Called Off, Tributes Paid
Tuesday's domestic Spanish fixtures were postponed as a mark of respect, while Champions League matches proceeded. At the Nou Camp, Barcelona's game against Aston Villa was preceded by a minute's silence. Raphinha, who scored twice in Barcelona's 3-0 win, refused to discuss the match afterward, saying he wanted to send strength to De Miguel's family and that the news had deeply affected him personally.
