A Spanish second-division football match turned into a tragedy on Monday after a collision between CD Tenerife forward Jesús de Miguel and FC Andorra goalkeeper Jesús Owono resulted in de Miguel’s death. The 30-year-old striker sustained injuries during added time of the 2-2 draw, leading to his death on Tuesday, November 3, 2026.
The incident occurred near the halfway line as de Miguel chased a loose ball. Owono, rushing out of his penalty area to clear the ball, collided with de Miguel at speed. The referee immediately showed Owono a straight red card for the challenge, which happened in the closing moments of the match. Although Owono initially walked off the field, he returned upon realizing the seriousness of the situation.
Medical personnel rushed onto the pitch as de Miguel lay motionless, with players from both teams visibly distressed. He received emergency medical attention before being taken to hospital, where his neurological condition deteriorated. Tenerife confirmed his death on Tuesday morning, stating, “Racked with pain, with a lump in our throats and unable to believe that this is true. There are no words of comfort; there is absolutely nothing that can alleviate this feeling overflowing with sadness. We stand alongside his devastated family, alongside his loved ones, alongside all of the tinerfeñismo that today weeps for this cruel outcome.”
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Police probe collision under manslaughter laws
Spain’s National Police launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, including possible involuntary manslaughter. Under Spanish law, deaths from non-natural causes are subject to judicial investigation. The Chief Prosecutor in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, José Luis Sánchez-Jáuregui, indicated that criminal proceedings against Owono were unlikely because the collision occurred during active play. Authorities will examine the collision’s circumstances, match footage, and the medical response.
The investigation will determine whether de Miguel’s death resulted solely from the accidental collision or if other factors require examination. Owono, in a statement issued through FC Andorra on Wednesday, November 4, expressed his devastation: “These are the most difficult days of my life. It’s hard for me to find the words and it’s very difficult for me to digest anything that happened.
I feel an incredible pain for the loss of Jesús. I think about him, his family and all the people who loved him. I know there will be a lot of questions to broach, I will face whatever comes with all respect. But for now, honestly, I can’t think about anything but Jesús and the pain we are living. Rest in peace, Jesús.”
Owono’s statement followed widespread criticism and online abuse after collision footage circulated on social media. He deactivated his Instagram account on Tuesday due to hostile comments, including accusations of murder. FC Andorra defender Lautaro Spatz defended Owono, stating the goalkeeper was deeply affected and would never deliberately injure another player. The Equatorial Guinea Football Federation also expressed support for Owono, acknowledging his emotional struggles.
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Goalkeeper faces abuse, team offers support
Another goalkeeper, Michel Owono, disclosed receiving racist abuse after being mistakenly identified as the involved player. FC Andorra announced psychological support for affected players and staff and postponed its next match to allow for mourning.
Tenerife president Felipe Miñambres described the situation as devastating: “We are all going through very difficult moments now, of sadness and of not believing what happened. But we’ll go through the mourning all together, and we’ll be with all the people going through this feeling that should make us be more together.” FC Andorra issued condolences: “Devastated and with broken hearts, we want to send our most sincere condolences to the family of Jesús de Miguel, to all his teammates, friends, and to CD Tenerife.”
De Miguel’s death has highlighted the physical risks in lower-tier competitions, where medical resources differ from top-flight leagues. He joined Tenerife in summer 2025 after a career in Spain’s lower divisions, making 23 appearances in his first season. His passing has sparked discussions about medical support adequacy in second-division stadiums, where on-site medical oversight is often less full than in higher-level games.
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