Celebrity Breeze Bringing you fascinating stories
Related Articles
Condolences are pouring in for Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams after it emerged that he bravely represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup just one day after the heartbreaking loss of his beloved grandmother.
The South African Football Association (SAFA) has officially confirmed that Adams took to the field in Bafana Bafana’s 1-1 draw against Czechia in Atlanta on June 18 despite mourning the passing of his grandmother, Marianna Adams.
The talented midfielder started the match alongside Teboho Mokoena and Thalente Mbatha before being substituted at half-time for Relebohile Mofokeng. While it was not his strongest performance, many now understand the emotional burden he was carrying as he gave everything for his country during one of the most difficult moments of his life.
Adams had earned his return to Hugo Broos’ squad after an impressive run of form with Mamelodi Sundowns following a year away from the national team. His performances in recent months, including standout displays in international friendlies earlier this year, helped cement his place back in the Bafana setup.
He would later feature again as a substitute in South Africa’s historic 1-0 victory over South Korea, a result that secured Bafana Bafana’s place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 for the first time in the country’s history. South Africa will now face Canada in the knockout stages.
Following speculation on social media about the death of Adams’ grandmother, SAFA released an official statement expressing its condolences to the player and his family.
According to the association, Marianna Adams, aged 72, passed away in a hospital in Stellenbosch on June 17, just a day before South Africa’s crucial World Cup clash with Czechia. She was laid to rest on Saturday, June 27.
SAFA praised Adams for his courage, noting that he honoured his national team commitment despite suffering such a devastating personal loss. The association highlighted that South Africa earned its first point of the tournament in the Czechia match before making history by qualifying for the knockout stages with victory over South Korea.
SAFA President Danny Jordaan also shared a heartfelt message of support, saying the association joins Adams’ family, friends and loved ones in mourning the loss of his grandmother. He offered the football body’s deepest condolences and prayed for her soul to rest in peace.
Marianna Adams is survived by her husband, her children and several grandchildren.
As news of the tragedy spreads, football fans across South Africa have continued sending messages of love, strength and support to Jayden Adams and his family during this incredibly difficult time.
