By Kudzai Jakachira
Zimbabwe’s Warriors have received a potential boost ahead of their crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying double-header against Equatorial Guinea after the West African nation was dealt a major setback following a tragic incident in Spain.
Equatorial Guinea’s first-choice goalkeeper, Jesus Owono (pictured), has been ruled out of the two encounters after being involved in a collision that led to the death of Spanish striker Jesus de Miguel during a Spanish second-division match.
The incident occurred during Monday’s fixture between FC Andorra and Tenerife. De Miguel was rushed to intensive care following the collision but died on Tuesday morning.
Owono, who is 25, has reportedly been left deeply affected by the tragedy, prompting the Equatoguinean Football Federation to confirm that he will not be available for the upcoming international assignments.
The goalkeeper has been an important figure for Equatorial Guinea, having established himself as the country’s first-choice shot-stopper from a young age.
He has also represented his country at the last three AFCON tournaments and featured in their opening two matches of the 2027 qualifying campaign.
His absence is likely to present a selection headache for head coach Vincenzo Alberto Annese as he prepares his team for the difficult assignment against Zimbabwe.
Owono has expressed his grief over the incident, describing the period as one of the most difficult moments of his life.
The goalkeeper has also faced online abuse following the collision, forcing him to deactivate his Instagram account.
“These are the most difficult days of my life,” he said.
He added that he was struggling to process what had happened and that his thoughts were with De Miguel and those affected by his death.
The Equatoguinean Football Federation has since publicly expressed its support for the player.
Zimbabwe will face Equatorial Guinea on 12 November before hosting the return fixture in Harare on 16 November.
The two matches could have a significant bearing on the Warriors’ hopes of qualifying for the 2027 AFCON finals.
Currently, DRC are leading Group E standings with six points, while Zimbabwe and Equatorial Guinea are tied on three points apiece. Sierra Leone occupy the bottom position without a point.
The tragic development could offer an opportunity to capitalise on their opponents’ disruption, particularly as the Warriors look to collect maximum points from the two matches.
With qualification points at stake, the Warriors will be under pressure to deliver, especially in front of their home supporters when the two sides meet in Harare on 16 November.
