Spanish football has been left mourning the death of Tenerife striker Jesús de Miguel following a collision with FC Andorra goalkeeper Jesús Owono. The 30-year-old forward suffered a serious injury during a Spanish second-division match on Monday and passed away on Tuesday. The tragic incident has also raised questions about the possible sporting and legal consequences for Owono.
The Equatorial Guinea international is reportedly in shock following De Miguel’s death. He has also faced online abuse, with some social media users calling him a “murderer”. However, the goalkeeper’s involvement in the collision does not automatically establish criminal responsibility.
What Sporting and Legal Punishment Could Owono Face?
The incident happened during Tenerife’s match against Andorra. De Miguel was chasing a long ball when Owono rushed out of his penalty area to clear it. The goalkeeper collided with the striker, hitting him in the chest with his knee.
De Miguel received medical attention on the pitch for more than five minutes before being taken away in an ambulance. Owono was shown a red card. The match was abandoned during stoppage time with the score at 2-2.
Spanish media reported that De Miguel suffered a cardiac arrest while being transported to hospital. He was revived in the ambulance, but his condition later deteriorated.
Tenerife confirmed his death on Tuesday and released an emotional statement. The club said: “Racked with pain, with a lump in our throats and unable to believe that this is true, from CD Tenerife we communicate the tragic passing of Jesús de Miguel Alameda.”
Under Article 102 of the Spanish Football Federation’s Disciplinary Code, violent conduct causing serious injury can result in a suspension of four to 12 matches. However, the authorities must first examine the incident.
Owono could also face legal proceedings under Article 142 of the Spanish Penal Code, which deals with negligent homicide. Depending on the level of negligence established, the punishment can include imprisonment or a fine.
However, neither a sporting suspension nor criminal conviction is automatic. Investigators must establish whether Owono’s actions amounted to negligence.
Meanwhile, FC Andorra and the Spanish Footballers Association have also expressed their condolences following De Miguel’s death.
