Bafana Bafana midfielder Jayden Adams has opened up on how being dropped from the 2025 AFCON squad served as a massive wake-up call, sparking a career revival for both club and country.
Adams, who joined Mamelodi Sundowns in January 2025, has successfully turned his fortunes around after battling a severe dip in form at the start of last season.
His struggles under club conditions ultimately cost the 25-year-old his spot in Hugo Broos’ final squad for the Africa Cup of Nations [AFCON] tournament in Morocco. However, that setback proved to be the ultimate turning point.
JAYDEN ADAMS REWARDS BROOS’ FAITH AT THE 2026 FIFA WORLD CUP
Fast forward to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and the dynamic Sundowns midfielder has firmly re-established himself, cracking the nod for Broos’ tournament squad in the United States.
Adams has been a vital cog in South Africa’s engine room, starting both opening Group H fixtures against Mexico and Czechia before being subbed off in the second half of both matches.
Reflecting on his journey, the former Stellenbosch FC star revealed how missing out on Morocco forced him to take a hard look in the mirror.
“To focus on myself, I went back home during that break,” Adams told journalists in the mixed zone at the Atlanta Stadium.
“The AFCON squad [snub] disappointed me a bit. But I came back, reflected on where I was, and decided to give my all. At the moment, yes [I am happy with my performance], but I know I can still do much better.”
REALISING A CHILDHOOD DREAM ON THE GLOBAL STAGE
Despite the immense pressure of the tournament, Adams feels his World Cup breakthrough has arrived at the perfect juncture in his career.
“I was very excited just to make my family proud, and the experience here is very good,” Adams said of his tournament debut.
“As you grow up, you always dream of playing on the biggest stage. The opportunity came, and I think it’s the right time for me. My performance was decent for me personally, so it was very nice.
“Now, we just need to focus on ourselves, recover properly, and look forward to the next game.”
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