Mamelodi Sundowns’ Jayden Adams has credited the most recent international break for his improved performances in 2026.
The 24-year-old has impressed in recent weeks following a slow start to the season, starting seven of the club’s last nine games including their 3-0 win over Stade Malien in the first leg of their CAF Champions League quarter final tie at Loftus Versfeld on Friday.
Speaking to the media after the match, Adams detailed what has helped him find form again.
“I think just the hard work and I think the break, the international FIFA break [during] the AFCON. I reflected on myself and pushed myself. So yeah, when I came back, just gave my all. And the coach gave me the opportunity to start and I took it with both hands,” he said.
The midfielder, who missed out on the 2025 AFCON, has been named in Hugo Broos’ preliminary Bafana Bafana squad for the team’s upcoming friendlies against Panama at the end of the month.
He stated that it would be a dream to be selected for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“Yeah, it will mean a lot to me and to my family. I just want to make my family proud and showcase my talent at the big stage. So yeah, if I get chosen, I’m going to do my best.”
Adams has already played three times for the national team under Broos and was a bronze medal winner at the 2023 AFCON. He will be fighting to take back his place in the Bafana squad ahead of the global showpiece in the USA, Canada and Mexico in June.
