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Why was there a moment of silence before England vs Norway at the 2026 World Cup?
England and Norway's FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal began with an emotional tribute before kickoff.
England and Norway's FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal began with an emotional tribute before kickoff.
Players, match officials and supporters observed a moment of silence in memory of Jayden Adams, the South African midfielder who passed away at the age of 25 just days after representing his country at the World Cup.
What do we know about Jayden Adams' death?
The death of Jayden Adams was confirmed on Saturday by South Africa's Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie.
"It is with deep shock and great sadness that I have received the news of the passing of Jayden Adams, midfielder for Mamelodi Sundowns and the South African national team," McKenzie said in a statement.
The minister also noted that the cause of Adams' death has not yet been confirmed.
His passing came only days after South Africa's historic World Cup campaign.
Who was Jayden Adams?
Born in Cape Town on May 5, 2001, Adams developed through the Stellenbosch FC academy and became the first academy graduate to sign a professional contract with the club.
In January 2025, he joined Mamelodi Sundowns, where he established himself as a key midfielder and helped the club win the CAF Champions League.
Adams also became a regular member of South Africa's national team and represented his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup before his unexpected passing.
The moment of silence in Miami served as FIFA's tribute, along with both national teams, to honor the life and career of the South African midfielder.
