Columbia World Cup Star Campaz Goes Into Hiding After Death Threats

Colombia midfielder Jaminton Campaz has reportedly gone into hiding after receiving death threats following his side’s elimination from the Copa América.

The 26-year-old came under intense criticism after missing a crucial opportunity in extra time during Colombia’s goalless Round of 16 clash against Switzerland at BC Place in Vancouver on July 8.

Campaz fired over the crossbar with only the goalkeeper to beat, denying Colombia a chance to take the lead before the match ended 0-0 and was decided by penalties.

Although he converted his spot-kick in the shootout, Colombia lost 4-3 and crashed out of the tournament.

Following the defeat, the Rosario Central midfielder’s social media accounts were inundated with abusive messages and threats.

He subsequently restricted comments on his social media pages and, for security reasons, reportedly did not return to Colombia with the rest of the squad, opting instead to remain in hiding.

In an emotional Instagram post, Campaz apologised to supporters, saying he was devastated by the outcome.

“I deeply regret not being able to give you the joy we all hoped for, but I want you to know that I never lacked commitment, dedication or love for this shirt. I gave everything I had on the field, and I would do it again a thousand times for my country,” he wrote.

He also appealed for calm, urging fans not to allow frustration to turn into hatred.

“Football is also made up of difficult moments. My Colombia, please let us never lose sight of respect. We may think differently or feel frustration and sadness, but no passion justifies hatred or living in fear,” he added.

Reacting to the incident, the Colombian Football Federation (FCF) condemned the threats and called on authorities to investigate those responsible.

The federation said it had requested prosecutors to urgently identify and prosecute those behind the intimidation, stressing that no player should face threats for representing the country.

“No athlete, nor any member of their inner circle, should be subjected to intimidation for representing their country in a sporting arena,” the federation said.

The incident has drawn comparisons with one of the darkest moments in Colombian football history.

In 1994, defender Andrés Escobar was murdered in Medellín days after scoring an own goal during Colombia’s World Cup defeat to the United States.

The FCF reiterated that football should promote unity and respect, insisting it must never become a platform for hatred, intimidation or violence.

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