Komphela pays tribute to Jayden Adams

July 15, 2026 52

Mamelodi Sundowns senior coach, Steve Komphela, has paid an emotional tribute to the late Jayden Adams, describing him as a unique individual whose absence will leave a void that cannot be filled.

The 25-year-old midfielder passed away last Saturday, with tributes continuing to pour in from across the football fraternity. Police have opened an inquest into his death, with the cause yet to be determined.

Having worked closely with Adams during his time at Chloorkop, Komphela said it was the midfielder’s quiet nature, discipline and exceptional ability that he would remember most.

“I will miss his silence, quality on the field, and his voice. A man of very few words,” he said.

He added that Adams’ respect, humility and willingness to learn reflected his upbringing.

“Jayden would not hesitate to immediately say ‘yes sir’ and the respect he had speaks to the upbringing he had. He’s going to be greatly missed. He’s one piece that in football a lot of players come and go,” he added.

Adams joined Mamelodi Sundowns from Stellenbosch FC and was widely regarded as one of South Africa’s brightest midfield talents. He also represented Bafana Bafana at senior level and was part of the squad that competed at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, returning to Johannesburg with the national team just days before his death.

A memorial service will be held in his hometown of Stellenbosch on Thursday evening. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by his family in due course.

𝗙𝗢𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗥 𝗢𝗡𝗘 𝗢𝗙 𝗨𝗦, 𝗚𝗥𝗢𝗢𝗧𝗠𝗔𝗡 💛

The joy you brought, the memories you gave us and the mark you left on this family will stay with us forever

Forever one of us. Forever Yellow. 💛#Sundowns #RIPJayden pic.twitter.com/3utUUPFZdu

— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) July 15, 2026