Thu Sep 12 04:51:47 UTC 2024: ## Argentina’s Martinez Accused of Slapping Cameraman After Colombia Loss

**Barranquilla, Colombia** – Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has been accused of assaulting a cameraman following his team’s 2-1 loss to Colombia in a FIFA World Cup qualifier match.

Jhonny Jackson, a cameraman for Caracol Television and RCN Deportes, claims that Martinez slapped him after the match. Jackson stated that he was pointing his camera at Martinez as the goalkeeper was shaking hands with another player. “Out of the blue, he slapped me. I felt angry, very angry. I was working, just like he was,” Jackson told RCN Deportes.

The Colombian Association of Sports Journalists (ACORD) has called on FIFA to take action against Martinez. “As the journalistic authority in this country, ACORD wants FIFA to produce an exemplary sanction against Mr. Emiliano Dibú Martínez, who is no role model for new generations,” said ACORD president Faiver Hoyos Hernández.

However, reports indicate that Jackson has since sent a message to Martinez seeking reconciliation. “Dibu, my brother, how are you? I am Jhonny Jackson, the cameraman you assaulted in the match against Colombia. I wanted to tell you it is all good, my brother. Everyone has lost a match in their life. This defeat clearly meant a lot to you. But look ahead, Dibu,” Jackson’s message read.

The match itself saw Colombia exact revenge on Argentina for their Copa America final defeat earlier this year. James Rodriguez scored from the penalty spot and assisted on the opening goal by Yerson Mosquera, giving Colombia a 2-1 victory. Nico Gonzalez had equalized for Argentina in the second half.

Despite the loss, Argentina remains top of the South American World Cup qualifying table with 18 points after eight matches. Colombia is in second place with 16 points. Both teams have two qualifying matches remaining next month. The top six teams in the standings will automatically qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

Read More