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Goalkeeper who collided with Jesus de Miguel 'suffering' as investigation launched

Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono was sent off for his challenge on Tenerife striker Jesus de Miguel, who died in hospital having suffered a cardiac arrest after the foul

Jesus Owono, goalkeeper of FC Andorra, is in action during the match between FC Andorra and CD Castellon at New FAF Stadium in Encamp, Andorra, on October 11, 2026. (Photo by Walter Cunha/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

One of Jesus Owono's team-mates says that the Andorra goalkeeper is 'suffering' in the wake of Jesus de Miguel's tragic death. Owono, 25, collided with the Tenerife striker during Monday's match in the Spanish second division.

De Miguel later suffered a cardiac arrest and died in hospital on Tuesday. A routine investigation regarding possible involuntary manslaughter has since been opened by Spanish police.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife chief prosecutor Jose Luis Sanchez-Jauregui says that criminal proceedings against Owono are 'very unlikely'. Andorra defender Lautaro Spatz has now taken to Instagram to defended his team-mate, who deleted his own account after reportedly receiving a hoard of abuse.

Spatz wrote: "There are moments when football loses its meaning. Moments that mark you forever and make you realise how fragile life can be. What we went through is something none of us will ever forget.

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"A tragedy that has left us completely broken, speechless, and with a sadness that is difficult to explain. First and foremost, I want to express my deepest condolences and all my love to Jesus' family, friends, and loved ones, as well as to the entire Tenerife community and the entire football family.

"Since yesterday, the entire FC Andorra squad has been shocked, devastated, and deeply affected by what has happened. It is a tragedy we never imagined we would experience on a football pitch.

"I also want to say a few words to my team-mate, goalkeeper, and friend, who is deeply affected by what happened. Those of us who know him know the kind of person he is.

"We know how much he is suffering right now and that he would never intend to hurt anyone. In football, unforeseen events occur, but no one can imagine that one of them could end with such tragic consequences.

Lautaro Spatz on Instagram

Lautaro Spatz posted a tribute on social media(Image: Instagram/lautarospatz)

"Today, football doesn't matter. All that remains is to offer our condolences, show the utmost respect, and send all our strength to the family and to all those suffering this terrible loss. Rest in peace, Demi."

It was reported in Spain that Owono broke down in tears and was praying in the dressing room after his reckless tackle. The game was abandoned at 2-2 after De Miguel was rushed to hospital.

Despite initially being in a 'stable' condition in intensive care, the 30-year-old's condition worsened overnight and he passed away. Thousands of fans gathered at a vigil at Tenerife's stadium on Tuesday evening to remember Madrid-born De Miguel.

Andorra paid tribute by saying: "With broken hearts and devastated, we want to send our most sincere condolences to the family of Jeses de Miguel, to all his teammates, friends, and to CD Tenerife."

De Miguel's team-mates at Tenerife have also posted on social media. "You let me into your heart, and you earned a place in mine, as we shared moments of laughter every single day and took walks barefoot after our training sessions," midfielder Juanjo Sanchez said.

TENERIFE, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 21: Jesus de Miguel of CD Tenerife celebrates after scoring a goal during the Matchday 4 league match against Ourense CF in Tenerife, Spain, on September 21, 2025. The 30-year-old Spanish striker Jesus de Miguel, who played for clubs including CD Castellon and CD Tenerife throughout his career, passed away, sparking widespread mourning across Spanish football. (Photo by Andres Gutierrez/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Jesus de Miguel passed away in hospital on Tuesday(Image: Andres Gutierrez/Anadolu via Getty Images)

"I cannot let this moment pass without highlighting what a wonderful person you are. You never had an unkind word or a sour expression for anyone, and you always displayed exemplary conduct, despite all the challenges you faced. You will always be with me, my friend."

Tenerife striker Enric Gallego added: "Thank you for everything we experienced together - for your camaraderie, your character, your humanity and the exemplary attitude you always showed. I feel very fortunate to have shared a locker room with you. I'm going to miss you so much."

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