Goalkeeper Ovono dropped from Equatorial Guinea squad following player's death

The Equatorial Guinea Football Federation announced on Thursday that goalkeeper Jesus Ovono has been excluded from the squad for this month's Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. This decision follows the death of Tenerife forward Jesus de Miguel.

According to a report by Sportstar, a severe collision occurred between Ovono and de Miguel during a Spanish Second Division match between Andorra and Tenerife on Monday. Following the incident, striker de Miguel was moved to the Intensive Care Unit, but he passed away on Tuesday morning.

Following the tragedy, Ovono issued a statement on Wednesday, saying, "These are the most difficult days of my life. It is very hard for me to accept what has happened. I know many questions will be asked and I will face them with utmost respect. But right now, I cannot think of anything other than Jesus and the pain we are feeling. Jesus, may your soul rest in peace."

Some users on social media used abusive language, calling Ovono a 'murderer', leading him to deactivate his Instagram account on Tuesday. On the other hand, the Equatorial Guinea Football Federation expressed support for Ovono on Tuesday, stating that the 25-year-old player is currently going through deep shock and grief.

Ovono had played in the first two qualifier matches for the 2027 finals in September, but he will now not play in the match against Zimbabwe in Bata on November 12 and the return match to be played in Harare on November 16.

Jesus Ovono had been Equatorial Guinea's first-choice goalkeeper since his teenage years and had represented his team in the last three Africa Cup of Nations finals.