Colombia star refuses to fly home after getting death threats over World Cup miss
COLOMBIA midfielder Jaminton Campaz did not return home following the nation’s World Cup exit amid fears for his life, according to reports.
The South American giants were knocked out of the tournament in a penalty shootout defeat to Switzerland earlier this week.
Campaz had the chance to win the match for his country in the final stages of extra time but fired his attempt over the crossbar.
The score stayed at 0-0 as a result and the match subsequently went to penalties.
The midfielder scored from the spot but Colombia were knocked out following a 4-3 loss.
Since the defeat, Campaz has been rocked by horrific death threats and abuse on social media.
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Argentina-based outlet Infobae now reports that he did not fly back to Colombia due to safety concerns.
It is currently unclear if the 26-year-old stayed in the United States or took a separate flight to Argentina, where he plays for Primera Division club Rosario Central.
Campaz took to Instagram to plead for calm and respect following the World Cup exit.
He said: “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.
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“Since I was a child, I dreamed of defending Colombia’s colors, 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 fulfill that dream. These are memories I will carry with me forever.
“I want to sincerely thank everyone who stood by us during this World Cup – those who believed in us, cheered us on until the very last minute, and never lost faith.
“Thanks also to my family, who have been my strength at every step and have been by my side during both the happiest and the most difficult moments.
“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.
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“I gave everything I had on the pitch, and I would do it a thousand times over for my country.”
The fears for Campaz’s safety come 32 years after Colombian defender Andres Escobar was murdered outside of a nightclub in Medellin, just days after scoring an own goal in a World Cup group stage game against the United States – a result which all-but sealed their exit from the tournament.
The Colombian Football Federation (FCF) has condemned the threats aimed at the midfielder, calling for an investigation to be opened.
A statement read: “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.”