November 15 – Andorra and Equatorial Guinea goalkeeper Jesus Owono, who collided with Tenerife striker Jesús de Miguel Alameda who later died in hospital, has been banned for 12 matches.
The disciplinary commission of the Spanish FA (RFEF) gave Owono the longest suspension allowed by its rules, as well as a fine of €600. Andorra were fined 2,400 euros.
The incident happened in the added time of the second half of the Second Division match when Owono (25) came out to challenge a high ball from De Miguel (30).
Referee Manuel Ángel Pérez Hernández gave Owono a straight red card and in his match report said the card had been given for “a reckless challenge with his leg up, using excessive force against an opponent while the ball was in play”.
Owono immediately tried to help De Miguel, along with other players. Pérez Hernández left the game once the severity of De Miguel’s injury became apparent and with both teams “unwilling to continue the game”.
The Spanish police have confirmed that they have opened an investigation into the events. The Superior Court of Justice of the Canary Islands (TSJC) said that a judicial investigation has been automatically opened, standard procedure in any death caused by accident or other circumstances.
The chief prosecutor of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, José Luis Sánchez-Jauregui, told the EFE news agency that it was unlikely that a criminal case would be launched.
Owono, who has reportedly not left his house since returning from the match, was described by his colleagues as devastated.
On the club’s social networks, he said: “They have been the hardest days of my life. It is difficult for me to find the words and it is very difficult for me to accept everything that has happened. I feel immense pain for the loss of Jesus.
“My thoughts are with him, his family and everyone who loved him. I know there will be many issues to address and I will face whatever comes with the utmost respect. But right now, I honestly can’t think about anything but Jesus and the pain we are going through. Rest in peace, Jesus.”
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