Juventud Bellavista players receive death threats ahead of Copa Perú semifinal

Four Juventud Bellavista footballers – Alexis Gómez, Carlos Ascues, Fabrizio Roca and Jair Lovera – were shown in a video on social media brandishing a firearm and issuing death threats if they failed to win the upcoming semifinal against FC Sport River in the 2026 Copa Perú. The recording, posted days before the match scheduled for 9 August at Trujillo’s Mansiche stadium, featured masked voices demanding a favorable result and warning of violent retaliation for any mistake on the field.

Peru’s National Police opened an investigation to identify the perpetrators, with early leads suggesting the threat may have originated from a group linked to the club’s own supporters. The Peruvian Footballers’ Association (SAFAP) issued a strong statement demanding that authorities protect the players, launch a thorough inquiry and ensure the safety of all football workers during the competition.