Cardoso Leads Football Tributes As Sundowns Coach Mourns Tragic Loss Of Spanish Striker Jesus De Miguel

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has joined the growing football community in mourning the tragic death of Spanish striker Jesus de Miguel, following an unfortunate on-field incident that has sent shockwaves across the international football fraternity.

The Portuguese tactician, who has strong connections to Spanish football, paid tribute to the former CD Tenerife forward after news of his passing emerged earlier this week. De Miguel died on Tuesday, 3 November 2026, at the age of 30, leaving teammates, supporters, coaches and football officials devastated.

His death followed a collision with FC Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono during a Spanish second-division encounter on Monday. The incident occurred when the goalkeeper came out to challenge for the ball, resulting in a serious collision that required immediate medical attention.

De Miguel was subsequently rushed to hospital, where his condition deteriorated. Despite efforts to save his life, the Spanish forward passed away the following morning.

The heartbreaking news has attracted tributes from different parts of the football world, with several prominent figures expressing their condolences to his family, friends and former teammates.

Cardoso's decision to pay tribute reflects the deep connections within the football community, where the loss of a player is felt far beyond the boundaries of the club he represented.

The Sundowns coach has also experienced Spanish football from close range through his coaching career, making the tragedy particularly significant within the wider football fraternity.

Meanwhile, CD Tenerife have been left devastated by the loss of a player who represented the club with commitment and determination. Supporters have also gathered to honour his memory, leaving flowers and messages at the club's stadium.

On Saturday, 7 November, Tenerife organised a special memorial ceremony at the Estadio Heliodoro Rodríguez López, allowing supporters to pay their final respects. Hundreds of mourners gathered as the club remembered the striker's contribution and celebrated his life.

The Spanish football authorities also arranged tributes across various competitions between 6 and 9 November. Players, match officials and supporters were encouraged to observe moments of silence in his memory.

Furthermore, matches across Spanish football featured special commemorations, including tributes referencing the number nine shirt worn by De Miguel.

The tragedy has also prompted discussions about player welfare and safety during competitive matches, although investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident remain a matter for the relevant authorities.

For Mamelodi Sundowns, Cardoso's tribute represents another reminder that football extends beyond trophies, rivalries and results.

While the Brazilians continue pursuing their ambitions in domestic and continental competitions, their coach has taken a moment to acknowledge a fellow football professional whose life ended far too soon.

De Miguel's passing is a painful reminder of the human connections that unite the beautiful game.

Source:

https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2119385055122338263