Adams Mourns Grandmother Amid Historic Knockout Qualification

Bafana Bafana have been dealt a major blow after midfielder Jayden Adams lost his grandmother.

The Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder’s grandmother passed away a day before Bafana Bafana’s 1-1 FIFA World Cup Group A draw against Czechia in Atlanta last week.

Despite the heartbreaking news, Adams started the match before being substituted at half-time, with star attacker Relebohile Mofokeng coming on in his place.

Bafana Bafana, who had opened their campaign with a defeat to Mexico, secured a crucial point against Czechia thanks to a Teboho Mokoena penalty.

Hugo Broos’ side then made history by defeating South Korea 1-0 on Thursday to qualify for the FIFA World Cup knockout stages for the first time.

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

“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.

“South Africa earned their first point of the World Cup with the 1-1 draw before making history by qualifying for the second round of the global tournament for the first time after beating South Korea 1-0 on Thursday.”

SAFA president Danny Jordaan added: “This is a massive loss for Jayden’s family, friends and relatives, and we join them in mourning the passing of his grandmother. On behalf of SAFA, we offer our deepest condolences, and may her soul rest in peace.”

Marianna Adams is survived by her husband, children and several grandchildren.

Having reached the knockout stages for the first time, Bafana Bafana will face Canada in the Round of 32 at Los Angeles Stadium on Sunday.