Campaz faced threats after missing a crucial goal in Colombia’s quarterfinal defeat to Switzerland, which concluded in a penalty shootout.
Published On 10 Jul 2026
Colombian footballer Jaminton Campaz has been targeted with death threats after his team’s early World Cup exit, the Colombian Football Federation (FCF) confirmed, condemning the intimidation tactics. “No athlete or their support network should endure threats for representing their nation in sport,” the federation stated.
Colombia’s campaign concluded in Tuesday’s round of 16 with a penalty shootout loss to Switzerland. During extra time, Campaz—a Rosario Central midfielder—missed a pivotal chance, sending the ball wide under pressure.
On Instagram, Campaz posted a photo of himself covering his face in disappointment, accompanied by a message urging fans to uphold respect. “Football encompasses difficult moments,” he wrote. “My Colombia, let us never lose sight of respect. Frustration and sadness are natural, but no passion justifies hatred or fear.”**
The FCF has requested expedited investigations by the attorney general’s office to identify those responsible for the threats. “Sport must foster unity, respect, and hope—not hatred, intimidation, or violence,” the federation emphasized, appealing to supporters to separate on-field emotions from real-world actions.**
The threats echo a tragic chapter in Colombian football history. In 1994, defender Andrés Escobar’s own goal against host nation USA led to his murder days after Colombia’s World Cup elimination, underscoring the enduring dangers of unchecked fan aggression.**