BREAKING: Footballer Who Featured at 2026 World Cup Passes Away

Tributes have poured in following the death of South Africa midfielder Jayden Adams just days after taking part in the World Cup. It was reported by eNCA on Saturday that the 25-year-old had passed away.

The midfielder played for South Africa first tier side Sundowns. He featured in all three of the nation’s World Cup group stage games, but was an unused substitute for the 1-0 loss against Canada at the Round of 32 knockout game.

The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) have confirmed the sad news and given their tribute: The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) is devastated by the untimely passing of Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder Jayden Adams,” the statement read.

“Jayden had only recently represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage and distinction. His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, teammates, clubs, the football fraternity and the country at large.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the Adams family, Mamelodi Sundowns, Stellenbosch FC, Bafana Bafana and all those whose lives he touched.

“South African Football has lost a gifted player, a proud servant of the game and a young life that still had so much to offer.

“May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

Alongside the statement, they wrote on their X account: “Death has cruelly stolen one of our own.

“It has robbed our nation of a remarkable footballer, but it will never take away the legacy Jayden Adams leaves behind. We will forever remember his humility, his extraordinary talent and the pride with which he represented South Africa.

“Rest in eternal peace, Jayden. You will never be forgotten.”

It was confirmed during the tournament by the South African Football Association that Adams played in the 1-1 draw with Czechia just a day after the death of his grandmother. He was named in the starting XI for the game, but was replaced at half time.

In a statement at the time the SAFA said: “The South African Football Association (SAFA) is saddened to hear about the passing of Bafana Bafana midfielder Jayden Adams’ grandmother, Marianna.

“The 72-year-old Marianna Adams passed away a day before the South African senior men’s national team faced Czechia in a 2026 FIFA World Cup Group A match played at Atlanta Stadium on Thursday 18 June 2026. She passed away in a hospital in Stellenbosch and will be laid to rest on Saturday, 27 June 2026 (South Africa time).

“Jayden started in the match against Czechia and gave his all while carrying the burden of losing his grandmother.

“The South Africans won their first point of this World Cup following that match – it ended in a 1-1 draw – and went on to make history and qualify for the second round of the global tournament for the first time ever after beating South Korea 1-0 on Wednesday.”

SAFA president Danny Jordaan added: “This is a massive loss for Jayden’s family, friends and relatives and we join in mourning the loss of his grandmother. We as SAFA offer our deepest condolences and may her soul Rest in Peace.”

Last season saw Adams play 37 times in all competitions for his club, scoring twice and providing an assist.