World Cup: Campaz Death Threats Revive Memories of Escobar Tragedy

Jaminton Campaz reportedly went into hiding after death threats following Colombia’s World Cup exit, reviving memories of Andrés Escobar’s 1994 murder after the tournament.

Colombia forward Jaminton Campaz has reportedly gone into hiding after receiving death threats following his country’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, raising painful memories of the 1994 killing of defender Andrés Escobar.

Campaz became the target of online abuse after missing a golden opportunity in the closing stages of extra time during Colombia’s Round of 16 clash against Switzerland on July 7. The match ended goalless after 120 minutes before Switzerland secured a 4–3 victory in the penalty shootout.

According to the New York Post, the 26-year-old did not return to Bogotá with teammates James Rodríguez, Davinson Sánchez and Juan Fernando Quintero. Reports indicate he may have travelled to Argentina, where he plays club football for Rosario Central.

Breaking his silence in an emotional Instagram post, Campaz appealed for calm and urged supporters not to allow football to become a source of hatred.

“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 wrote.

The forward said representing Colombia at the World Cup had fulfilled a childhood dream despite the disappointment of the team’s exit.

“Since I was a child, I dreamed of defending Colombia’s colours, hearing the anthem, representing millions of people and scoring a goal at a World Cup. Today, I can only thank God for allowing me to fulfil that dream,” he added.

Campaz also apologised to supporters, insisting he gave everything for his country.

The incident has revived memories of one of football’s darkest chapters, when Colombian defender Andrés Escobar was murdered in Medellín days after scoring an own goal during the 1994 FIFA World Cup in the United States.

Reacting to the threats, the Colombian Football Federation condemned the abuse and called on the country’s Attorney General’s Office to identify and prosecute those responsible.

The federation expressed full support for Campaz, his family and the national team, stressing that no player should face intimidation for representing their country.

It added that every member of Colombia’s national team wears the country’s colours with discipline, professionalism and a commitment to achieving the best possible result.