2027 AFCON Qualifiers: Jesus Owono misses Equatorial Guinea squad for Zimbabwe games after fatal collision with Jesus de Miguel

Equatorial Guinea goalkeeper Jesus Owono has been left out of the national team’s squad for their upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers following the death of Tenerife striker Jesus de Miguel after the pair collided during a Spanish second-division match.

The Equatorial Guinean Football Federation confirmed on Thursday that the 25-year-old goalkeeper would not be involved in the country’s two encounters against Zimbabwe this month as he continues to deal with the emotional impact of the incident.

Owono and De Miguel were involved in a collision during Monday’s Spanish second-division fixture between Andorra and Tenerife, leaving the striker seriously injured.

De Miguel was subsequently rushed to intensive care but died on Tuesday morning, a development that has left both clubs and the wider football community mourning his death.

The tragic incident has also placed Owono under considerable emotional strain, with the goalkeeper admitting that he is struggling to come to terms with what happened.

The decision to leave him out of the squad means Equatorial Guinea will have to make alternative arrangements in goal for their crucial qualifying double-header against Zimbabwe.

Owono breaks silence after De Miguel’s death

Owono, who has established himself as Equatorial Guinea’s first-choice goalkeeper since his teenage years, expressed his grief following the striker’s death.

The 25-year-old, who has represented his country at the last three Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, acknowledged the difficulty of processing the tragedy and said his immediate thoughts were with the deceased striker and his family.

“These are the most difficult days of my life,” Owono said in a statement on Wednesday.

“I struggle to find the words, and I find it very hard to process what has happened. I know there will be many questions to address, and I will face whatever comes with the utmost respect.

“But right now, honestly, I cannot think about anything other than Jesus and the pain we are experiencing. Rest in peace, Jesus.”

His statement reflected the emotional toll of the incident, which has overshadowed his immediate football commitments.

Owono had also deactivated his Instagram account on Tuesday after being subjected to online abuse following the collision.

Some social media users reportedly directed insults at the goalkeeper, with several describing him as a ‘murderer’ in comments on his posts.

The abuse came despite the circumstances surrounding the incident, which occurred during a competitive football match.

Equatorial Guinea offer goalkeeper support

The Equatoguinean Football Federation has publicly expressed its support for Owono, acknowledging the profound grief and emotional difficulties he is experiencing.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the federation said the goalkeeper was going through a period of deep sorrow following De Miguel’s death.

His omission from the latest squad is therefore a significant adjustment for a national team that has relied on his experience and consistency over several years.

Owono featured in Equatorial Guinea’s opening two matches of the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign in September and was expected to remain an important figure in their pursuit of qualification.

However, his absence means he will miss the first meeting with Zimbabwe in Bata on November 12 before the two countries face each other again in Harare on November 16.

Zimbabwe double-header presents challenge for Equatorial Guinea

Equatorial Guinea must now prepare for the two qualifiers without their established number one as they continue their campaign for a place at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Owono’s experience at three consecutive AFCON tournaments makes his absence a notable setback for the national team, particularly with two important fixtures scheduled within four days.

Beyond the footballing implications, however, the goalkeeper’s situation has highlighted the emotional and personal consequences of the tragedy.