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Jayden Adams GFX GOAL
Dingizwe Gwala

A bold leap into the spotlight: Jayden Adams' unstoppable rise at PSL giants Mamelodi Sundowns & 2026 Fifa World Cup hopefuls Bafana Bafana

GOAL takes a u-turn on its stance about Jayden Adams' move from Stellenbosch FC to Premier Soccer League heavyweights Mamelodi Sundowns.

When you think of players who’ve made an instant impact, few stories shine brighter than that of Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana star, Jayden Adams.

Joining Sundowns from Stellenbosch FC in January, Adams’ move raised eyebrows, especially considering he was stepping into a squad already brimming with talent at Chloorkop.

Many, including your trusted football news outlet, were quick to voice doubts about whether he could break through in such a star-studded setup.

But here's the twist - Adams has proved us all wrong, and we couldn’t be more thrilled about it. In fact, it’s time to eat humble pie. GOAL would like to extend a sincere apology to Adams for doubting his potential or place at Sundowns.

Since his arrival in Miguel Cardoso's side, he’s not only become a regular starter at Sundowns but has also firmly established himself as a key figure for Bafana. The 'boy' is showing the world what he’s made of, and we’re happy to admit we were wrong. What a rise this is turning out to be.

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  • Jayden Adams, Mamelodi Sundowns, February 2025.BackPagePix

    Eating humble pie with a smile

    Let’s be real - we were among the first to criticise Adams’ decision to join Sundowns, and we were vocal about the belief that he had, in fact, committed a career blunder. But today, we’re more than happy to eat humble pie and admit we were wrong. Adams is not only proving us wrong but doing so in spectacular fashion, emerging as an invaluable asset to Bafana. Still, it’s important to note that our initial assessment wasn’t pulled out of thin air. It was based on a history of players whose careers seemed to stall or even flounder after signing with Sundowns. He is even being compared to Spain and Barcelona star Pedri.

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  • Jayden Adams, Mamelodi Sundowns, January 2025Mamelodi Sundowns

    A star born in the Tshwane Derby

    After joining Sundowns in January, Adams made an immediate impact, debuting in the Tshwane Derby on February 5. In that match, he played a key role in Sundowns’ commanding 3-0 victory over rivals SuperSport United. From there, Adams has not only become a regular feature in the starting XI but has exceeded expectations, especially given the fierce competition within Sundowns’ midfield. With talents like Teboho Mokoena, Bathusi Aubaas, Sphelele Mkhulise, Rivaldo Coetzee, and the dynamic Marcelo Allende and Neo Maema all vying for spots, many doubted Adams’ chances of making a significant mark. But here he is, proving everyone wrong.

  • Miguel Cardoso, Jayden Adams, Lucas Ribeiro and Marcelo Allende, Mamelodi Sundowns Backpage

    Cardoso’s confidence pays off

    When Adams was first unveiled at Sundowns, there were whispers of doubt about how he’d fare among such a talented squad. However, the hard-to-please Cardoso stood resolutely behind him. "When a player comes to our club and faces a group of players with this kind of quality, he needs to perform consistently. He needs to embrace the club’s spirit and give his best in training," Cardoso said. And Adams has done just that. His performances on the field are a testament to his commitment and his ability to adapt to the demands of Sundowns’ style and culture. It’s safe to say that Adams has been one of the standout signings of the January window.

  • Jayden Adams, Bafana Bafana

    Bafana brilliance

    There was a time when Adams was excluded from the Bafana squad due to issues with discipline. But since his return, it’s clear he’s turned a new leaf, repaying coach Hugo Broos with his stellar performances. Adams has been on fire for the national team, netting back-to-back goals in the 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers, helping South Africa secure crucial victories against Botswana and Benin. His impressive form hasn’t stopped there - he continued his goal-scoring run at club level with a standout performance against Sekhukhune United and delivered a vital assist to Peter Shalulile in Sundowns’ Caf Champions League quarter-final first-leg against Esperance.

  • Jayden Adams and Ogbelu Onuche, Mamelodi Sundowns vs EsperanceBackpage

    The future is shining bright

    For many South African players, playing for Sundowns, Kaizer Chiefs, or Orlando Pirates represents the peak of their careers. But for Adams, this is just the beginning. At 23 years old, he is already on the verge of winning the PSL title with Sundowns, who are currently in the driver’s seat. As the team heads to the Fifa Club World Cup in June, Adams could find himself playing on the biggest stage. If he continues his stellar performances in the Club World Cup and the upcoming Bafana qualifiers, there’s no telling just how high he can soar. European scouts may soon be knocking on his door, seeking a versatile, dynamic young midfielder who is only just beginning to show his full potential. Adams’ future is as bright as they come - and who knows? We may look back on this time as the moment we witnessed the rise of South African football’s next international star.

  • Miguel Cardoso, Mamelodi SundownsBackpage

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