Colombian soccer player Campaz targeted with deadly warnings following crucial World Cup mistake, echoing tragic Escobar incident

Colombia forward Jaminton Campaz has gone into hiding after receiving death threats following his team's elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, sparking fears of a repeat of the tragic events that led to the murder of defender Andres Escobar in 1994.

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This alarming turn of events unfolded after Campaz missed a crucial scoring opportunity in the round of 16 game against Switzerland on July 7, with the match ending goalless after 120 minutes and Switzerland ultimately winning 4-3 in the penalty shootout.

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Campaz's missed chance occurred in the final six minutes of extra time, a moment that would prove pivotal in the outcome of the game and the subsequent threats against him.

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According to reports, the 26-year-old player did not return to Bogotá with his teammates James Rodríguez, Davinson Sánchez, and Juan Fernando Quintero, and his current whereabouts remain unknown, although speculation suggests he may have traveled to Argentina, where he plays for Rosario Central.

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As concerns over his safety continue to grow, Campaz broke his silence on Friday with an emotional message on Instagram, urging fans to reject hatred and violence and instead choose respect.

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In his message, Campaz wrote, "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," in a heartfelt plea to his fans.

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Campaz reflected on his experience representing Colombia at the World Cup, saying it had fulfilled a lifelong dream, despite the team's painful exit from the tournament.

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He expressed his gratitude, saying, "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."

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Campaz also apologized for not being able to bring joy to the fans, saying, "I deeply regret not being able to bring you the joy we all hoped for, but I want you to know there was never a lack of dedication, commitment or love for this jersey."

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He reaffirmed his commitment to his country, saying, "I gave everything I had on the pitch, and I would do it a thousand times over for my country," in a testament to his devotion to Colombia.

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The threats against Campaz have revived memories of the tragic killing of Andrés Escobar, who was shot dead in Medellin days after scoring an own goal during Colombia's 1994 FIFA World Cup campaign in the United States.

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The Colombian Football Federation has condemned the threats against Campaz, calling on the country's Attorney General's Office to investigate those responsible and bring them to justice.

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The federation expressed its solidarity with Campaz and his family, stating, "No sportsman, nor any member of their camp, should be subjected to intimidation for representing their country in a sporting context."

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The Colombian Football Federation also reiterated its support for the players, saying, "The players who make up our national teams accept the honour of wearing the Colombian shirt with discipline, commitment, professionalism and a deep love for their country."