[Saba Sports News] In the World Cup Round of 16, Colombia were eliminated by Switzerland in a penalty shootout, suffering an unfortunate exit at the last 16 stage. Notably, Jaminton Campaz, Colombia’s No.21, missed a match-winning chance during extra time. Now, Campaz and every member of his family have received death threats. After the game, Campaz turned off the comment section on his social media accounts and released an official statement, which read: “Ever since I was a child, I have dreamed of wearing the Colombia national team jersey to play for my country. I dreamed of standing for countless compatriots while the national anthem plays, and of scoring goals on the World Cup stage. I am grateful to have fulfilled my childhood dream, and this experience will remain a precious memory I will cherish for the rest of my life. I want to speak honestly to all my fellow citizens. I fully understand the heartbreak this early exit has brought you, and I am equally devastated. I feel deep regret for failing to live up to your expectations and bring the joy you hoped for. Yet I ask you to know that we gave our absolute best, fulfilled every duty, and hold boundless love for our national team shirt. I poured everything I had out on the pitch, and I would give this same level of effort a thousand times over if it serves my nation.”
The editor believes that Colombian football has witnessed a tragic precedent. Back at the 1994 World Cup, Andrés Escobar, a Colombian player, scored an own goal that led to his side’s elimination. He was shot dead shortly after returning home.