Champions matches in Spain forgo anthem after Jesús de Miguel's death

UEFA announced that the traditional Champions League anthem will not be played before the fixtures in Espanha this round, which begin on Tuesday, in the early hours of Tuesday, as a mark of respect following the death of Tenerife striker Jesús de Miguel.

UEFA cancels anthem as tribute

The measure is presented as solidarity with Spanish futebol after the tragedy and also honours the victims of a serious train accident that occurred last week. UEFA described the action as an exceptional tribute to the football community.

Como demonstration of respect, Villarreal relayed UEFA’s notice to the Spanish clubs, confirming that the anthem will not be reproduced ‘exceptionally this night’ in the stadiums. The club posted the information on its official social media channels.

Villarreal is one of four clubs from Espanha competing in the 2026/27 Champions League group stage. It hosts Paris Saint‑Germain on Tuesday, while Atlético Madrid hosts Bayern Munich, Barcelona hosts Aston Villa on Wednesday, and Real Madrid travels to face AEK.

Jesús de Miguel, aged 30, died on Tuesday after a severe collision with Andorra goalkeeper Jesús Owono during a Segunda División match at the Heliodoro Rodríguez López stadium in Tenerife. The club confirmed his Morte in the early hours of Tuesday, less than a day after the incident.

Foul triggers Spanish murder squad – Jesús de Miguel shocks the pitch

The clash occurred in injury time when De Miguel chased a long ball and Owono left his area, striking the attacker with a strong impact. The impact caused De Miguel to collapse motionless on the pitch.

Players from both sides immediately called for medical staff, who attended for several minutes. Owono received a straight red card for the challenge.

The match was abandoned at 108 minutes to allow medical treatment. De Miguel was taken by ambulance to hospital, where he remained unconscious.

Tenerife president promises psychological aid after Jesús de Miguel dies

The club reported that his clinical condition worsened neurologically early on Tuesday and that he suffered a cardiac arrest. Emergency personnel performed resuscitation before he was transferred.

“With deep pain, a knot in the throat and unable to believe this is true, we announce the tragic death, on Tuesday, 3 November 2026, at 8 am, of Jesús de Miguel Alameda,” the club said. The incident has also sparked a legal Caso, with speculation that goalkeeper Owono could face homicide charges.