Sports

I’ll face whatever comes - Goalkeeper involved in fatal collision with Spanish footballer speaks out

By Linda Ikeji 4 November 2026, 9:22 pm

The goalkeeper involved in the fatal collision with the late Jesus de Miguel has broken his silence since the tragic incident.

FC Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono collided with opposing striker de Miguel in the latter stages of a hotly contested 2-2 draw with Tenerife in Spain's second division on Monday.

De Miguel collapsed after the horrific collision, during which Owono's knee appeared to hit the forward in the chest. He later died in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

Owono, who has since deactivated his Instagram account after heavy backlash from Tenerife fans, issued a statement alongside his club today.

'FC Andorra continues to be deeply affected by the death of Jesús de Miguel,' they wrote. 'In these very difficult moments, our player Jesús Owono wishes to personally share a few words.'

Owono said: 'These are being the most difficult days of my life. I am struggling to find the words and find it very difficult to assimilate anything that has happened.

Andorra held a minute's silence at the club's training ground today.

FC Andorra defender Lautaro Spatz has also defended his teammate, writing that the goalkeeper has been 'deeply affected' by the tragedy.

'There are moments when football loses its meaning. Moments that mark you forever and make you realise how fragile life can be,' Spatz wrote in a statement shared on social media.

'What we went through is something none of us will ever forget. 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 Jesús’s 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.'

Spatz continued: 'I also want to say a few words to my teammate, 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. 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.'

Police investigating de Miguel's death are now probing the emergency medical response as well as the possibility Owono's horror tackle could be involuntary manslaughter.