Bogotá, July 11: Colombian midfielder Jaminton Campaz has received death threats following his team’s elimination from the FIFA World Cup 2026. The Colombian Football Federation (FCF) has urged authorities to investigate these threats.
Campaz was targeted on social media after missing a crucial scoring opportunity during the extra time of the Round of 16 match against Switzerland, which ended in a penalty shootout loss for Colombia. The match, held in Vancouver, concluded with a tense 0-0 draw, leading to a 3-4 defeat in penalties. Campaz had a chance to score but sent his shot over the crossbar, which could have advanced Colombia to the quarter-finals.
The FCF stated that it has requested government prosecutors to identify and prosecute those responsible for the threats.
In an official statement, the FCF expressed solidarity with Campaz, his family, and the entire national team. They also called on the Attorney General’s Office to promptly investigate and hold accountable those behind these actions.
The federation condemned the threats against Campaz’s life and safety. They emphasized that players representing Colombia do so with commitment and love for their country. The FCF further stated, “Football should be a place of unity, respect, and hope, not a platform for hatred, intimidation, or violence.”
The 26-year-old player, who plays for Argentine club Rosario Central, did not return to Colombia after the defeat. In a social media post, he shared a photo of himself with his face covered in sorrow, apologizing to fans.
Campaz said, “I deeply regret that I could not bring you the joy we all hoped for, but I want you to know that my commitment, dedication, and love for this jersey have never wavered. I gave my all on the field, and I would do it a thousand times for my country.”
This incident has drawn parallels to the 1994 World Cup, when defender Andrés Escobar was murdered in Medellín after scoring an own goal against the United States.
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