The day began like any other for Jesús Owono, a 25‑year‑old goalkeeper for Andorra FC. During a Spanish second‑division game, Owono rushed out of the centre circle to clear a long ball and his knee struck Tenerife striker Jesús de Miguel in the chest. The collision led to Owono being sent off.
Jesús de Miguel died on Tuesday after suffering a cardiac arrest following the collision. “These are the hardest days of my life,” he said, struggling to find the words to express his grief.
Rest in peace, Jesus De Miguel Owono says https://t.co/cGVB1uwMNY
In his first public statement since the incident, Owono pledged to meet the aftermath with respect. “I will face whatever comes with the utmost respect,” he declared, emphasizing his commitment to handling the situation responsibly.
Police have opened an investigation into the incident, and prosecutors have indicated that building a criminal case may not be feasible.
Teammate Lautaro Spatz spoke in support of Owono, saying, “Those who know him as we do know what kind of person he is and how much he is suffering right now. He never had the intention to hurt anyone.” The Equatorial Guinean Football Federation also expressed its support for Owono during this difficult time.
❗️💔 Goalkeeper Jesús Owono breaks his silence for the first time following the death of Jesús de Miguel. 🗣️ “These are the hardest days of my life. I’m struggling to find the words and come to terms with what happened. I feel immense pain over Jesús’ passing. My thoughts are with him, his family and everyone who loved him. I know there are many questions to be answered, and I will respectfully accept whatever consequences come. But right now, all I can think about is Jesús and the pain we’re going through. Rest in peace, Jesús. 🕊️💔”
Police have opened an investigation into the incident, and prosecutors have indicated that building a criminal case may not be feasible. The focus remains on understanding what happened and ensuring player safety in future matches.
Owono continues to repeat that these are “the hardest days of my life,” expressing an “enormous pain” for the loss of Jesús de Miguel and thinking of his family and friends.
UD Almería will donate 100% of ticket sales from its home match against CD Tenerife to the family of Jesús de Miguel. The club emphasized that while no amount of support can ease the pain of losing a loved one, it hopes the gesture can offer some assistance during this difficult time. ❤️
The football world is now reflecting on the tragedy and the need for greater safety measures on the pitch. For Owono, the days ahead will still be challenging, but his resolve to face the situation with respect offers a hopeful note for the community.
- Jesús Owono, 25, is a goalkeeper for Andorra FC. - Jesús de Miguel, a Tenerife striker, died from cardiac arrest after colliding with Owono during a match. - The incident occurred during a Spanish second‑division game. - Owono was sent off and is the subject of a police investigation. - The Equatorial Guinean Football Federation supports Owono. - Lautaro Spatz, Owono's teammate, speaks of his friend's suffering.
- "These are the hardest days of my life." – Jesús Owono, expressing his deep sorrow after the tragic incident.