Picture: Bafana Bafana midfielder Jayden Adam
By REGINALD KANYANE
28 June 2026 – The South African Football Association (SAFA) is saddened to hear about the passing of Bafana Bafana midfielder Jayden Adam’s grandmother, Marianna. 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 18 June 2026.
She died in a hospital in Stellenbosch and was laid to rest on 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.
SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan said the South Africans won their first point of this World Cup following that match – it ended in a 1-1 draw – and went on to make history and qualify for the second round of the global tournament for the first time ever after beating South Korea 1-0 on Wednesday.
“This is a massive loss for Jayden’s family, friends and relatives and we join in mourning the loss of his grandmother. We as SAFA offer our deepest condolences and may her soul Rest in Peace.
“Marianna Adams is survived by her husband, her children and several grandchildren,” he said.
The Guardian 