Colombian forward Jáminton Campaz is reportedly in fear for his life after missing a crucial goal-scoring opportunity in extra time during Colombia's round of 16 match against Switzerland on Tuesday. The 26-year-old, who plays for Argentine side CA Rosario Central, has refused to board a flight with his teammates following Colombia's World Cup exit and has received numerous death threats, prompting a desperate plea for tolerance on his Instagram account.
Campaz Issues Plea for Respect Amid Threats
In a statement posted to social media, Campaz begged: “My Colombia, please let us never lose sight of respect. We may hold different views or feel frustration and sadness, but no passion justifies hatred or living in fear.” He added: “Since I was a child, I dreamed of defending Colombia’s colours, hearing the anthem, representing millions of people, and scoring a goal in a World Cup. Today, I can only thank God for allowing me to fulfil that dream. These are memories I will carry with me forever.”
Campaz also issued a formal apology to his countrymen, saying: “To the entire country, I can only say that I share the pain of this elimination. We, too, dreamed of advancing further, and I know the sadness we feel today as Colombians. I deeply regret not being able to bring you the joy we all hoped for, but I want you to know that there was never a lack of dedication, commitment, or love for this jersey. I gave everything I had on the pitch, and I would do it a thousand times over for my country.”
Chilling Reminder of Andrés Escobar Murder
The threats against Campaz are a chilling reminder of the fate of Andrés Escobar, the Colombian defender who was murdered in 1994 after scoring an own goal against the United States in the World Cup. Escobar was shot six times in a Medellín nightclub car park, with one killer reportedly shouting “goal!” with each bullet. Humberto Castro Muñoz, a driver and bodyguard for cartel kingpin Santiago Gallón, was convicted of the murder and served 11 years in prison. Gallón and his brother served 15 months as accessories, and Gallón himself was shot dead in a Mexican restaurant earlier this year.
Both Escobar's murder and the threats against Campaz are believed to be linked to losses incurred by betting syndicates in Colombia. The Colombian football federation condemned the online hounding of Campaz, stating: “No athlete, nor any member of their inner circle, should be subjected to intimidation for representing their country in a sporting arena. Football must be a space for unity, respect, and hope — never a setting for hatred, intimidation or violence.”
Campaz's Whereabouts Unknown
It remains unclear whether Campaz has flown directly to Argentina or chosen to remain in the United States. The 26-year-old forward, who plays for CA Rosario Central, has reportedly gone to ground, refusing to travel with his teammates after Colombia's elimination. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation and renewed concerns about the intersection of football, organised crime, and violence in Colombian society.
