FIFA World Cup 2026: England, Norway players observe moment of silence for South Africa's Jayden Adams
Florida, July 12
England and Norway players paid tribute to South Africa international Jayden Adams ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal, observing a moment of silence before kick-off following the midfielder's tragic passing.
The Football Association shared the tribute on social media, with players and officials honouring Adams' memory before the match got underway.
"A moment of silence before kick-off, following the tragic passing of South Africa's Jayden Adams. Rest in peace, Jayden," the England national team posted on X.
Jayden Adams passed away at the age of 25, according to South African news outlet Soccer Laduma. Adams represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and was scheduled to leave for his club's pre-season tour in Europe on Saturday.
The midfielder, widely regarded as one of South Africa's brightest football prospects, had enjoyed a rapid rise over the past two seasons, earning a place in the senior national team's recent FIFA World Cup squad.
Brendine Johnson, Jayden Adams' mentor, said the footballer's death had devastated his family and those close to him.
He revealed that Adams had been in high spirits after returning from the FIFA World Cup and was looking forward to the upcoming season, making the tragedy even more heartbreaking.
"At this moment, things are still raw, you know, things are still raw. The family wouldn't want to be contacted right now, they wouldn't be able to answer anyone. This passing has ripped everybody apart, returning from the World Cup just now, and then got such news, you know. I had a close conversation with him on Thursday, the guy was really positive on returning back, and being able to return after the World Cup and go, you know, being a CAF champion, knowing what lies ahead, he was prepared. He doesn't waste time away, being at home with his family," Johnson said as quoted by Soccer Laduma.
"So at this moment, I don't even have words to say, but we ask that the family's privacy be respected. Yes, I can tell you that he passed on. Nobody expected this," Johnsons said further.
At the World Cup, South Africa lost 1-0 to co-hosts Canada in the Round of 32 clash and were eliminated from the tournament.
— ANI
Reader Comments
This is truly heartbreaking. The way his mentor described the conversation just days before is so tragic. Football is more than just a game - it's about humanity and coming together in tough times. Sending love to his family and teammates from India. 🇮🇳⚽
Respect to England and Norway for this gesture. In a world where ego and rivalry often dominate football, moments like this remind us we're all part of the same global family. Jayden Adams represented South Africa with pride at the World Cup - that's an achievement very few can dream of. May his soul rest in peace.
Terrible loss for South African football. We don't see enough coverage of African football in India, but reading about how Jayden was excited about his pre-season and being a CAF champion really hits hard. Life is so fragile. 🌹
It's heartbreaking when someone with so much life ahead passes away unexpectedly. His mentor said he was positive and prepared - that makes it even more painful because he had so many dreams to fulfil. The moment of silence shows that the football world truly cares. Rest in peace, Jayden. 🕊️
The media should focus more on respecting the family's privacy during this time rather than speculating on details. His mentor specifically asked for that. But I appreciate the tribute by England and Norway - classy gesture from both teams. 🙏
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