Spanish Football Federation Bans Goalkeeper Jesus Owono for 12 Matches After Fatal Collision

The Spanish football federation has imposed a 12-match suspension on FC Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono following a fatal on-field collision with Tenerife striker Jesus de Miguel during a second-tier match on November 2. The disciplinary committee issued the maximum penalty after reviewing the match official's documentation. Owono, 25, received a red card in the final moments of the match after colliding with the 30-year-old forward, who died the next day.

The disciplinary committee based its decision on the facts recorded in the referee's report, which noted that Owono "was sent off for 'violently striking an opponent in the chest with his leg, using excessive force, while the ball was in play'." The committee acknowledged the tragic outcome of the incident, resulting in the death of Jesus de Miguel Alameda, and concluded that the "nature of the conduct described and the accompanying circumstances" justified the maximum sanction.

Alongside the individual suspension, federation authorities resolved the competitive status of the interrupted match, which was halted seven minutes into stoppage time with the scoreboard locked at 2-2. The fixture will not be replayed, and the 2-2 draw will stand as the official result. Authorities explained that ending the match permanently "avoids having to resume play from the precise moment at which the tragic incident occurred."

The psychological toll of the tragedy has left Owono's playing career in doubt. On November 4, FC Andorra released a statement on behalf of the Equatorial Guinea international, revealing he was enduring "the most difficult days" of his life and felt "enormous pain" over De Miguel's passing. Owono has stepped away to be with his family and remains undecided about returning to the sport.

FC Andorra manager Carles Manso confirmed that Owono is taking time to be with his family and that the club is placing no pressure on him to return. Manso emphasized that the club will support him in every way and give him space to make any decision about his future. The timeline for Owono's return rests entirely with the player, and Manso added that he will make a decision when he feels genuinely ready.

The incident has raised questions about the safety of players on the field and the responsibility of goalkeepers in high-pressure situations. The Spanish football federation's decision to impose the maximum penalty sends a strong message about the seriousness with which it views such incidents. The federation's ruling has been widely reported in the football community, with many calling for increased measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

As Owono contemplates his future, the football community continues to mourn the loss of Jesus de Miguel Alameda. The incident serves as a reminder of the risks involved in professional sports and the need for players, coaches, and officials to prioritize safety and well-being. The 12-match suspension imposed on Owono is a significant penalty, and it remains to be seen how he will respond to the challenge ahead.

Key points

• Jesus Owono banned 12 matches for fatal collision with Tenerife's Jesus de Miguel.
• Match result declared final without replay, ending in 2-2 draw.
• Owono's future in football uncertain after tragic incident.