Owono Mourns Tenerife Striker, Says ‘These Are the Hardest Days of My Life’

Equatorial Guinea goalkeeper Jesus Owono has described the death of Tenerife striker Jesus de Miguel as the “hardest days of my life” following their by fatal collision during a Spanish second-division match.

De Miguel, 30, died on Tuesday from injuries sustained in a collision with Owono during Monday’s encounter between Tenerife and FC Andorra.

The incident occurred when Owono, 25, rushed out of his goal to clear an aerial ball but collided with the Spanish striker.

In a statement released by Andorra on Wednesday, Owono expressed deep sorrow over the incident, saying he was struggling to come to terms with the forward’s death.

“These are the hardest days of my life. I struggle to find the words, and it is very difficult for me to process anything that has happened,” he said.

“I feel immense pain over the loss of Jesus. I think of him, his family, and all the people who loved him.”

Owono added that his immediate concern was the bereaved family and everyone affected by the tragedy.

Spanish police have opened an investigation into the incident under judicial supervision.

The goalkeeper did not attend Andorra's voluntary training session on Wednesday, where his teammates observed a minute's silence in honour of De Miguel.

Meanwhile, president of the Equatorial Guinea Football Federation, Venancio Tomas Micha, expressed solidarity with Owono, describing him as an involuntary participant in the tragic incident.

The federation pledged its human and professional support to the goalkeeper as he deals with the emotional impact of the tragedy.

Andorra defender Lautaro Spatz also defended his teammate, saying Owono was deeply affected by the incident and would never intentionally hurt another player.

Meanwhile, Tenerife and Andorra's Spanish second-division fixtures scheduled for this weekend have been postponed.

Tenerife were due to face Granada away, while Andorra were scheduled to host Mallorca.

The Spanish Football Federation has also postponed all Copa del Rey and Copa de la Reina matches this week as a mark of respect.

Tenerife will hold a tribute to De Miguel at their stadium on Saturday, with supporters invited to attend. The club has also declared six days of mourning.

The first team, board members and staff are expected to attend the striker's funeral in Navahermosa, in Spain's Toledo province.