BY DIRAMAKINI
THE President of the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF),Dr. Patrice Motsepe has expressed deep sorrow following the death of South African international and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams, who passed away at the age of 25.
In a statement released by the CAF Communications Department, Dr. Motsepe described Adams' passing as a significant loss to South African and African football, paying tribute to the young midfielder's achievements for both club and country.
"On behalf of CAF and its 54 Member Associations, I convey my heartfelt condolences to the South African Football Association (SAFA), its President Dr. Danny Jordaan, Mamelodi Sundowns Football Club, and the family of Jayden Adams," Dr. Motsepe said.
Adams was part of the Bafana Bafana squad that represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he continued to establish himself as one of the country's brightest football talents.
At club level, he played a key role in Mamelodi Sundowns' successful 2025/26 campaign, helping the South African giants lift the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League 2026 title in Rabat, Morocco, further cementing his reputation as one of Africa's most promising midfielders.
Before joining Mamelodi Sundowns, Adams made his name at Stellenbosch FC, where his consistent performances earned him recognition as one of the Premier Soccer League's standout young players.
His impressive displays eventually secured him a place in the South African national team, where he had become a regular member of the squad.
Adams' death has sent shockwaves across the African football fraternity, with clubs, football administrators, teammates, and supporters paying tribute to a player widely admired for his professionalism, commitment, and dedication to the game.
CAF concluded its statement by offering prayers and condolences to Adams' family, friends, teammates, and the South African football community during this difficult period.
"May Jayden Adams' soul rest in peace," the statement concluded.