Jesus Owono has been suspended for 12 official matches by the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) following the collision that led to the death of Tenerife forward Jesus de Miguel.
The RFEF disciplinary committee classified the incident as a serious offence and imposed the maximum punishment available under Article 102 of its regulations. That provision allows for a ban of between four and 12 matches for violent conduct against an opponent during play.
The incident took place on 2 November during a match between FC Andorra, Owono’s club, and Tenerife. The 25-year-old goalkeeper, who has won 41 caps for Equatorial Guinea, collided with 30-year-old Jesus de Miguel, who died the following day as a result of the impact.
According to the referee’s report, Owono was sent off after striking the opponent heavily with his leg raised. The official said excessive force had been used while the ball was in play.
After reviewing the incident, the disciplinary committee concluded that the nature of the challenge and the circumstances surrounding it warranted the most severe suspension permitted by the regulations.
Owono has faced a deeply difficult period since the tragedy. In a statement released after De Miguel’s death, the goalkeeper described the days that followed as “the most difficult days” of his life.
FC Andorra manager Carles Manso also said Owono had been profoundly affected by the death.
The suspension means Owono will be unavailable for 12 competitive fixtures. It is a significant sporting penalty imposed in the aftermath of an incident that has also had serious human consequences for the players and clubs involved.
The death of Jesus de Miguel has had a deep impact on Spanish football, highlighting the risks associated with forceful contact during matches.
