FC Andorra centre-back Lautaro Spatz has defended his teammate Jesús Owono following a tragic collision with Tenerife player Jesús de Miguel that resulted in the opponent’s death the following day. Owono faced severe online abuse after the incident on Monday, prompting him to deactivate his Instagram account on Tuesday, while Andorra offered psychological support to club members affected by the tragedy.
Support for Owono and Investigation
Spatz expressed strong support for the goalkeeper on social media, emphasizing that those who know Owono understand his character and how deeply he is suffering. Spatz stated that the goalkeeper would never intentionally hurt anyone and noted that while unfortunate incidents can happen in football, no one could imagine such tragic consequences, while also sending condolences to the victim’s family and Tenerife. Owono had received a red card for rushing from his goal and striking the 30-year-old De Miguel with force, after which the Tenerife player suffered a cardiac arrest.
The Equatoguinean Football Federation released a statement supporting the 25-year-old player, noting that he is experiencing profound sorrow and grief. Meanwhile, Can Vidalet goalkeeper Michel Owono reported receiving racist abuse on social media after users mistakenly confused him with the Andorra player.
Spanish national police have launched a routine investigation into the death of De Miguel. However, the Santa Cruz de Tenerife chief prosecutor, José Luis Sánchez-Jáuregui, told the Spanish news agency EFE that criminal proceedings are very unlikely.
Impact on Fellow Players
Barcelona forward Raphinha stated that he found it difficult to play against Aston Villa in the Champions League on Tuesday following the tragedy. While domestic Spanish matches were postponed, Champions League fixtures proceeded, and a minute’s silence was observed before Barcelona secured a 3-0 victory with two goals from Raphinha.
Speaking to CBS Sports after the match, Raphinha sent strength to the family of Jesús and admitted he did not want to discuss football. He explained that learning the news created negative feelings, noting that as a fellow player of the same age, the event deeply affected him and could have happened to anyone.
