The South African Football Association (SAFA) confirmed that Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder Jayden Adams played in the 1-1 draw with Czechia in Atlanta on June 18 a day after the death of his grandmother.
SAFA said in a statement posted on Saturday, June 27, that the 72-year-old Marianna Adams passed away in a hospital in Stellenbosch and will be laid to rest on Saturday, June 27, 2026 (South Africa time). The association offered its condolences and said Adams “gave his all while carrying the burden of losing his grandmother.”
Adams started in midfield alongside Teboho Mokoena and Thalente Mbatha against Czechia but was substituted at half-time for Relebohile Mofokeng. SAFA noted that Adams came off the bench for Mofokeng in Wednesday’s 1-0 win over South Korea, a result that confirmed South Africa’s place in the round of 32, where they will face Canada in Los Angeles on Sunday.
SAFA’s statement recalled that Adams had earned a Bafana recall after a year out of Hugo Broos’ team following consistent performances for Sundowns, and that he had impressed in two March friendlies against Panama.
SAFA quoted its president, Danny Jordaan, saying: “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.” The association added that Marianna Adams is survived by her husband, her children and several grandchildren.
