"Football gives another chance": Support pours in after death threats; even Di Maria steps up for Colombian player

*This content was translated by AI.

Support is pouring in for Colombian striker Haminton Campas (Rosario Central), who faced death threats after being eliminated from the World Cup.

Colombian media El Colombiano reported on the 11th (Korea time) that "Campas received support from teammates and national team colleagues, including Angel Di Maria (Rosario Central) and Juan Fernando Quintero (River Plate)."

The Colombian national team lost to Switzerland in the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match remained tied after 120 minutes of extra time, with Switzerland ultimately winning via penalty shootout.

After the elimination, criticism was directed at Campas. He had a crucial scoring opportunity during extra time but missed the shot, leaving him head bowed. According to reports, harsh criticism flooded Campas's social media accounts after the match, escalating into death threats against him and his family.

There is a reason why Colombian football is particularly sensitive in this matter: it already carries a painful World Cup history. During the 1994 U.S. World Cup, defender Andres Escobar scored an own goal in a match against host nation USA. Colombia lost that game 1-2 and was eliminated early, returning home. Subsequently, Escobar was murdered because he had scored the own goal.

This is why the threats against Campas cannot be taken lightly. AP also reported that "Campas has disabled comments on his social media and, in preparation for any potential situation, did not board the return flight with his teammates."

Among them, teammates stepped up to support Campas. Di Maria, an Argentine football legend and fellow teammate at Rosario Central, posted on social media: "Friend, lift your head. You gave everything for your country. Football always gives another chance. Do not give up; keep fighting for your dreams."

Di Maria added, "No one can take away the joy and happiness of playing in the World Cup for your country. I love you very much."

Colombian national team colleague Quintero also showed solidarity by leaving a message: "Stay strong. I love you. And I will miss you."

Support extended beyond football. Colombian singer Santiago Cruz also embraced Campas, saying, "I know that hatred and negative energy are louder, but there are many people who carry respect like a flag." He continued, "Sending a big hug at this moment. Let's lift our heads and move forward."

The Colombian Football Association also strongly protested. The association stated, "No player, nor anyone around them, should become a target of threats simply for representing their country on the sports stage."

It further emphasized, "Football must be a space of unity, respect, and hope. It must never become a stage for hatred, threats, or violence."

Regarding this incident, the Football Association urged Colombia's Prosecution Service to quickly investigate who sent the threats.

The association stated, "Differences arising from sports competition must never lead to threats or attacks against those who dedicate their lives to representing their nation."

Campas himself left a direct message. Through social media, he wrote, "Football is also made up of difficult moments. All that remains today is to keep learning, getting back up, and striving to return stronger."

He continued, "My Colombia, please let us never forget respect. We can think differently and may feel frustration or sadness. But no passion can justify living in hatred and fear."

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*This content was translated by AI.