Jesús Lázaro Owono, an international player for Equatorial Guinea, has become the great hope for Deportivo Alavés following the injury of Antonio Sivera, the team’s starting goalkeeper. Sivera suffered a fracture in the base of the second metacarpal of his left hand during the 2-2 draw against Valencia CF at Mestalla, sidelining him for at least 40 days. In this scenario, Owono takes on the responsibility of guarding the Alavés goal in a crucial moment of the season.
At just 23 years old, Owono has proven himself to be a goalkeeper capable of shining in high-pressure situations. His performance in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) was exemplary, earning him the title of Best Goalkeeper of the group stage. His crucial saves against teams like Nigeria and Ivory Coast not only solidified Equatorial Guinea as a competitive side but also showcased his leadership and ability to handle intense pressure.
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Beyond the international stage, Owono has also earned recognition in Spain. In 2022, he was awarded Best Goalkeeper of Group IV in the Tercera RFEF during the Golsmedia awards, a testament to his talent and promise as one of Spain’s most promising goalkeeping prospects. These credentials make him the ideal candidate to step into the role at Alavés during Sivera’s absence.
Last Sunday at Mestalla, Owono entered the pitch at a critical moment following Sivera’s injury. Although the match presented challenges, his readiness to take on the responsibility demonstrated his commitment to the team. Now, as the starting goalkeeper, he has the opportunity to become the savior of the Alavés squad during this crucial stretch of the season.
With a contract valid until June 2026, Owono has expressed confidence in the team and in head coach Luis García Plaza, emphasizing the coach’s role as a vital figure in the locker room. This period will be a decisive opportunity for the Equatorial Guinean goalkeeper to not only prove his quality but also to establish himself as a key player that Deportivo Alavés can rely on in times of adversity.
