Equatorial Guinea goalkeeper Jesus Owono is facing a possible jail term and a suspension from football following a collision that led to the death of Spanish striker Jesus de Miguel during a match in Spain. The incident occurred during a Spanish second division match between Tenerife and Andorra, where Owono came off his line to close down De Miguel, resulting in a nasty collision that left De Miguel lying on the pitch. He was rushed to hospital and died of a cardiac arrest on Tuesday.
The Spanish Football Federation's Disciplinary Code suggests a suspension of four to 12 matches for players found to have committed violent conduct during play, resulting in serious injury. Owono received a straight red card during the match and could face the maximum suspension. The goalkeeper has since apologized for the incident, stating that he feels devastated and will carry the weight of the incident for the rest of his life. He has also asked De Miguel's family for forgiveness.
The incident has sparked an investigation into possible involuntary manslaughter, with the Homicide Group of the National Police in Santa Cruz looking into the circumstances of De Miguel's death. The probe will assess the challenge and the context in which it was made before determining the punishment. Owono has been condemned for being negligent and reckless, and has been forced to delete his social media accounts following racist abuse.
According to Article 142 of the Spanish Penal Code, Owono could face criminal charges if his challenge meets the threshold of criminal negligence. Gross negligence carries a prison sentence of up to four years, while the lesser charge carries a fine calculated over three to 18 months. The investigation will determine whether Owono's actions constitute gross or lesser negligence.
Tenerife fans paid their last respect to Jesus de Miguel, who died at a young age. The incident has sent shockwaves through the football community, with many calling for Owono to be held accountable for his actions. The Spanish Football Federation is expected to make a decision on Owono's suspension in the coming days.
Owono's team, Andorra, has not commented on the incident, but it is understood that they are cooperating with the investigation. The incident has raised questions about player safety and the responsibilities of goalkeepers during matches. An inquiry into the events surrounding De Miguel's death will help determine the circumstances leading to the fatal collision.
Jesus Owono, who plays for Andorra, has been left to deal with the consequences of his actions. He has apologized to De Miguel's family and has expressed his devastation at the incident. The outcome of the investigation and the subsequent punishment will have a significant impact on Owono's career and personal life.
Key points
- Equatorial Guinea goalkeeper Jesus Owono faces a possible jail term and suspension from football following a collision that resulted in the death of Spanish striker Jesus de Miguel.
- The incident is being investigated as a possible case of involuntary manslaughter, with Owono facing potential charges of gross or lesser negligence.
- Owono could face a suspension of four to 12 matches and a prison sentence of up to four years if found guilty of gross negligence.
