Andorra Goalkeeper Suspended for 12 Games After Fatal Collision

Spain’s soccer federation suspended Andorra goalkeeper Jesús Owono for 12 games after a collision with Tenerife striker Jesús de Miguel during a match in Tenerife on November 2. The disciplinary committee said Owono had used excessive force in the incident, which led to his red card.

De Miguel, 30, was pursuing a high ball in midfield when Owono ran well beyond his penalty area and struck him in the chest. De Miguel suffered cardiac arrest after the collision and died the following day.

Owono’s suspension was issued 10 days after De Miguel’s death. Owono expressed remorse and offered condolences to De Miguel’s family in a statement released through his club.

Spanish police have opened an investigation into possible involuntary manslaughter. Prosecutors have said criminal proceedings are unlikely. Spanish law calls for a court inquiry when a death is attributed to an unnatural cause, including an accident.

Andorra coach Carles Manso said on November 12 that Owono would decide when he felt ready to return to play. Manso said the goalkeeper had been deeply affected and that the club would give him room to choose whether and when to come back.