Miguel Jesus: Jesús Owono Handed 12-Match Ban After Fatal Collision 

FC Andorra goalkeeper Jesús Owono has been handed a 12-match suspension by the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) following the fatal on-field collision that claimed the life of Tenerife striker Jesús de Miguel.

The Equatorial Guinea international received the punishment on Friday after the federation’s disciplinary committee reviewed the incident during a Spanish second-division fixture on November 2.

Owono was sent off after rushing out of his goal and colliding with De Miguel while attempting to clear an aerial ball. The challenge left the Tenerife forward, 30, seriously injured.

De Miguel was subsequently admitted to intensive care but died in hospital on November 3, a day after the incident.

In its disciplinary ruling, the committee said the referee’s report recorded that Owono had been dismissed for violently striking an opponent in the chest with his leg while using excessive force.

Although the committee acknowledged the tragic circumstances surrounding De Miguel’s death, it explained that its decision was based on the conduct documented in the referee’s report.

The disciplinary body consequently imposed the maximum available punishment of 12 matches.

Spanish police have also opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident under judicial supervision.

Owono Breaks Silence After De Miguel’s Death

Following the tragedy, Owono expressed profound grief over the death of his fellow professional, describing the period as the most difficult of his life.

In a statement released by FC Andorra, the goalkeeper said he was struggling to process what had happened and extended his sympathy to De Miguel’s family and loved ones.

He also acknowledged that there would be issues to address following the incident but insisted that his immediate thoughts remained with the late striker and his family.

Meanwhile, FC Andorra coach Carles Manso said Owono would decide when, or whether, he was ready to return to football after the traumatic experience.

Tributes have continued to pour in for De Miguel, with Tenerife supporters and players gathering at the club’s stadium on Saturday for a memorial service.

His funeral was attended by approximately 400 mourners, including Spain national team coach Luis de la Fuente and Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez.

The 12-match suspension adds a disciplinary consequence to an incident that has sent shockwaves through Spanish football, while investigations into the circumstances of the tragedy remain ongoing.