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South African football has been thrown into mourning following the death of Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams, who passed away at the age of 25, just weeks after representing his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The news was confirmed by South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Gayton McKenzie, while the South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) also paid tribute to the talented midfielder. Authorities have not disclosed the cause of death, while police have opened an investigation after a 25-year-old man was found dead at a residence in Cape Town.
Adams featured in all three of South Africa’s group-stage matches at the World Cup, starting against Mexico and Czechia before coming off the bench in the victory over South Korea that helped Bafana Bafana reach the knockout stage for the first time in the country’s history. He was an unused substitute in the Round of 32 defeat to Canada. Before joining Mamelodi Sundowns in 2025, Adams rose through the ranks at Stellenbosch FC, becoming the club’s first academy graduate to sign a professional contract and later helping Sundowns win the CAF Champions League.
Tributes have poured in from across the football world, with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, South African officials, clubs and teammates remembering Adams as one of the nation’s brightest young talents. The football community has urged the public to avoid speculation over the cause of his death until the ongoing investigation is concluded, while supporters continue to honour the midfielder’s contributions to both club and country.
