Footballer dies aged 30 after cardiac arrest in Spain

Spanish lower-tier side CD Tenerife have confirmed the death of striker Jesus de Miguel at the age of 30, a day after he suffered a cardiac arrest during a match against FC Andorra.

The forward collapsed following a collision with Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono in the closing stages of Monday’s Spanish second-tier encounter.

The match was abandoned seven minutes into stoppage time after De Miguel fell to the ground following a challenge from Owono, who had rushed out of his penalty area to clear a long ball but struck the striker in the chest with his knee.

De Miguel remained motionless as players from both sides urgently called for medical assistance. Owono was shown a straight red card for the incident.

Medical personnel attended to the striker on the pitch for more than five minutes before he was taken to hospital by ambulance.

Tenerife announced his death on Tuesday, expressing their grief in an emotional statement.

“Racked with pain, with a lump in our throats and unable to believe that this is true, from CD Tenerife we communicate the tragic passing of Jesus de Miguel Alameda,” the club said.

“There are no words of comfort; there is absolutely nothing that can alleviate this feeling overflowing with sadness.”

Tributes have since poured in from football clubs across Spain, with Barcelona and Real Madrid among those expressing their condolences.

“Our thoughts and support are with his family, friends and loved ones during these difficult times,” Barcelona said in a statement.

Real Madrid also paid tribute to the late striker, saying: “Real Madrid wishes to express its condolences and affection to his family, his teammates, his club, and all his loved ones.”