The FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal between Norway and England began with an emotional tribute on Saturday. Before kick-off in Miami, players from both teams gathered around the halfway line and observed a minute’s silence.The tribute was held in memory of South Africa midfielder Jayden Adams, whose death was announced earlier in the day. He was 25.
Who was Jayden Adams?
Jayden Adams was one of South Africa’s brightest young footballers. He represented both Mamelodi Sundowns and the South Africa national team.Adams played a key role in helping South Africa reach the FIFA World Cup knockout stage for the first time in the country’s history.South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, confirmed the news of his death.“It is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams, midfielder for Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana, at the age of 25,” McKenzie said.“South African football has lost one of its brightest young talents, and our nation mourns alongside his family, his team-mates and the millions of supporters,” he added.The exact cause of Adams’ death has not been confirmed. McKenzie urged the public and media not to speculate and asked everyone to respect the family’s privacy.
Played despite personal tragedy
During the World Cup, Adams suffered a personal loss when his grandmother passed away. Despite the heartbreaking news, he still started South Africa’s second group-stage match just hours later. He also featured in the team’s third group game as a substitute.At club level, Adams spent several seasons with Stellenbosch before joining Mamelodi Sundowns last year. He also helped the club win the CAF Champions League this year.The South African Football Players Union paid tribute, saying: “Death has cruelly stolen one of our own. It has robbed our nation of a remarkable footballer. We will forever remember his humility, his extraordinary talent and the pride with which he represented South Africa.”South African President Cyril Ramaphosa also expressed his condolences following the news.
England reach the semifinals
After the tribute, England booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinals with a dramatic 2-1 extra-time win over Norway.Andreas Schjelderup gave Norway the lead, but Jude Bellingham equalised in first-half stoppage time before scoring the winner early in extra time.Bellingham was named Player of the Match after his match-winning brace, while Erling Haaland was kept scoreless for the first time in the tournament.England will now face either defending champions Argentina or Switzerland in the semifinals as they continue their bid to win their first World Cup title since 1966.
