The FIFA World Cup quarterfinal match between Norway and England was delayed for a moment of silence to honor the memory of South Africa player Jayden Adams, who died at age 25 on Saturday, July 11.
A moment of silence is held ahead of Norway vs England to honor the life of Jayden Adams pic.twitter.com/Tfea2tJqit
— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) July 11, 2026
Adams, who was a starter for two of three matches during South Africa’s group stage, also played against South Korea on June 24 in a victory that moved South Africa into its first-ever appearance in the World Cup knockout rounds.
Adams did not play in the June 28 loss to Canada.
The South African Football Players Union was among many institutions confirming Adams’ death on July 11.
Death has cruelly stolen one of our own.
It has robbed our nation of a remarkable footballer, but it will never take away the legacy Jayden Adams leaves behind. We will forever remember his humility, his extraordinary talent and the pride with which he represented South Africa.… pic.twitter.com/zl6uNXrbaV
— South African Football Players Union (@SAFPU_Official) July 11, 2026
The cause of death has not been confirmed.
In an ESPN report, a Western Cape South African Police spokesperson said: “Cape Town Central police registered an Inquest for investigation following the discovery of the body of a 25-year-old male on Saturday, 2026-07-11 at 11:06 at a premises in Military Road, Scotscheskloof. Circumstances surrounding this incident are under investigation.”
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Moment of silence for S. Africa’s Adams precedes Norway vs England match
