10 hours ago
Global equities ended last week little changed in local currency and up 0.6% in sterling terms. This continued the choppy pattern of recent weeks with markets currently down 1.5-2% from their peak in early June. The US underperformed with a gain of 0.3% in sterling terms while the UK and emerging markets were both up around 1.3%.
Meanwhile, government bonds in the US and UK both lost 0.5% with yields re-testing their highs in early May. 10-year UK gilt yields tested 5.1% while US yields reached 4.7%, before retreating a bit.
The war with Iran was centre stage with renewed attacks by both sides and Trump once again upping his threats. The new ingredient this time was that concerns were not limited to the Strait of Hormuz but extended to the Bab El Mandeb Strait with the Houthis exchanging blows with Saudi Arabia and threatening to close the waterway.
The importance of this new chokepoint is two-fold. First, it threatens Saudi's ability to divert via its pipeline a good part of its oil production to the Red Sea rather than the Strait of Hormuz. Second, it poses a threat to container traffic more generally which use the Suez Canal to avoid a long and costly diversion around the African coast.
Oil duly moved back up to $100 per barrel mid-week from a low of close to $70pb all of three weeks ago. But it is back down to $88pb this morning as negotiations between the US and Iran started up once again over the weekend, easing fears of a major escalation. However, this morning, Iran said it is not seeking new peace talks, so the confusion continues.
Even so, the fact remains that Trump appears to have chickened out yet again – be it because the hike in oil prices has pushed US gasoline prices back above $4 per gallon, the rise in US Treasury yields has caused concerns or because, as has been reported, the US lacks the necessary munitions.
#strait #back #sterling
Meanwhile, government bonds in the US and UK both lost 0.5% with yields re-testing their highs in early May. 10-year UK gilt yields tested 5.1% while US yields reached 4.7%, before retreating a bit.
The war with Iran was centre stage with renewed attacks by both sides and Trump once again upping his threats. The new ingredient this time was that concerns were not limited to the Strait of Hormuz but extended to the Bab El Mandeb Strait with the Houthis exchanging blows with Saudi Arabia and threatening to close the waterway.
The importance of this new chokepoint is two-fold. First, it threatens Saudi's ability to divert via its pipeline a good part of its oil production to the Red Sea rather than the Strait of Hormuz. Second, it poses a threat to container traffic more generally which use the Suez Canal to avoid a long and costly diversion around the African coast.
Oil duly moved back up to $100 per barrel mid-week from a low of close to $70pb all of three weeks ago. But it is back down to $88pb this morning as negotiations between the US and Iran started up once again over the weekend, easing fears of a major escalation. However, this morning, Iran said it is not seeking new peace talks, so the confusion continues.
Even so, the fact remains that Trump appears to have chickened out yet again – be it because the hike in oil prices has pushed US gasoline prices back above $4 per gallon, the rise in US Treasury yields has caused concerns or because, as has been reported, the US lacks the necessary munitions.
#strait #back #sterling
11 hours ago
Max Eberl and Bayern Munich have been busy in the summer transfer window through the FIFA World Cup season. As part of the changes to the squad, Bara Sapoko Ndiaye is set to be signed on a long term deal with the club. The Senegalese midfielder is expected to replace out the outgoing veteran and **** tuple champion Leon Goretzka.
Ndiaye had earned his favor from Vincent Kompany and got several opportunities with the first team in the second half of the season. Albeit not as risk taking as the sensational Lennart Karl, Ndiaye proved to be a robust midfielder who could hold his own against high pressing opponents. His awareness, technical skill and physical resilience saw him shuffle the ball smoothly at the back or find an occasional through ball. His one touch short passing is a special highlight of his composure.
Per Kicker's reporter Frank Linkesch, Ndiaye will be behind Joshua Kimmich, Aleksander Pavlović and Tom Bischof in the midfield order. Considering his age and experience, this is a very valuable position for his development. The full details are captured by iMiaSanMia below:
Despite their partnership, money was an important factor in the talks between Bayern and Gambinos Stars over Bara Sapoko Ndiaye. Bayern will pay a fee 'significantly under' €5m for the Senegalese international. Bara will take Leon Goretzka's spot in the squad and will be behind Kimmich, Pavlović and Bischof in the pecking order. Bara is highly rated at the club and was also part of the reason Noël Aséko was sold to Frankfurt. He will begin pre-season training with Bayern in the coming days.
Formed in 2023, Bayern Munich tied up with LAFC to form Red&Gold Football, a joint venture to scout and aid in the development of talents from across the globe. Ndiaye's parent club Gambino Stars a renowned football academy became a partner of the joint venture. Per LAFC, the aim of the partnership is "to provide the top players of The Gambia and other West African nations with a controlled, self-determined path to the top European leagues as well as Major League Soccer (USA)."
#season #sapoko #senegalese #leon
Ndiaye had earned his favor from Vincent Kompany and got several opportunities with the first team in the second half of the season. Albeit not as risk taking as the sensational Lennart Karl, Ndiaye proved to be a robust midfielder who could hold his own against high pressing opponents. His awareness, technical skill and physical resilience saw him shuffle the ball smoothly at the back or find an occasional through ball. His one touch short passing is a special highlight of his composure.
Per Kicker's reporter Frank Linkesch, Ndiaye will be behind Joshua Kimmich, Aleksander Pavlović and Tom Bischof in the midfield order. Considering his age and experience, this is a very valuable position for his development. The full details are captured by iMiaSanMia below:
Despite their partnership, money was an important factor in the talks between Bayern and Gambinos Stars over Bara Sapoko Ndiaye. Bayern will pay a fee 'significantly under' €5m for the Senegalese international. Bara will take Leon Goretzka's spot in the squad and will be behind Kimmich, Pavlović and Bischof in the pecking order. Bara is highly rated at the club and was also part of the reason Noël Aséko was sold to Frankfurt. He will begin pre-season training with Bayern in the coming days.
Formed in 2023, Bayern Munich tied up with LAFC to form Red&Gold Football, a joint venture to scout and aid in the development of talents from across the globe. Ndiaye's parent club Gambino Stars a renowned football academy became a partner of the joint venture. Per LAFC, the aim of the partnership is "to provide the top players of The Gambia and other West African nations with a controlled, self-determined path to the top European leagues as well as Major League Soccer (USA)."
#season #sapoko #senegalese #leon
17 hours ago
'Briu' is a Cape Verdean Creole word that can mean grit, determination, drive, focus or energy. That's how national team forward Sandra Soares-Martins describes the mood in camp as her side prepares for its first-ever WAFCON match.
But such is the rise of the country's national teams as a whole within the past decade, 'briu' could be used to describe the Cape Verdean Football Federation.
While the men's side were making history competing in a first-ever senior World Cup, the women's team were busy putting the final touches to their preparations to create yet more history for the island nation.
The newly expanded 16-team tournament is underway in Morocco after kicking off Sunday, July 26, following a delay from March.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) expanded the tournament from 12 to 16 teams after qualification ended. Before that decision, Cape Verde secured their place in Morocco by winning two-legged ties against Guinea and Mali.
#morocco #briu #side #ever
But such is the rise of the country's national teams as a whole within the past decade, 'briu' could be used to describe the Cape Verdean Football Federation.
While the men's side were making history competing in a first-ever senior World Cup, the women's team were busy putting the final touches to their preparations to create yet more history for the island nation.
The newly expanded 16-team tournament is underway in Morocco after kicking off Sunday, July 26, following a delay from March.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) expanded the tournament from 12 to 16 teams after qualification ended. Before that decision, Cape Verde secured their place in Morocco by winning two-legged ties against Guinea and Mali.
#morocco #briu #side #ever
3 days ago
The inclusive nature of the Commonwealth Games' integrated schedule is helping to change African attitudes towards disability, according to some of the continent's leading para-athletes.
Unlike the Paralympics there is no separate event for para-sports at the Games, meaning medals won by disabled and non-disabled competitors contribute equally to a nation's tally.
The process began in Manchester in 2002, helping to make it the first fully inclusive international multi-sport Games, with para events taking place during the same sessions as non-disabled ones.
"Sport really is a huge pusher for change," swimmer Husnah Kukundakwe, who is Uganda's team captain in Glasgow, told BBC World Service.
"It shows that para-swimming or para-sport just deserves the same kind of recognition, funding, sponsoring."
#inclusive
Unlike the Paralympics there is no separate event for para-sports at the Games, meaning medals won by disabled and non-disabled competitors contribute equally to a nation's tally.
The process began in Manchester in 2002, helping to make it the first fully inclusive international multi-sport Games, with para events taking place during the same sessions as non-disabled ones.
"Sport really is a huge pusher for change," swimmer Husnah Kukundakwe, who is Uganda's team captain in Glasgow, told BBC World Service.
"It shows that para-swimming or para-sport just deserves the same kind of recognition, funding, sponsoring."
#inclusive
4 days ago
Barcelona have confirmed they will take on Al Ahly in the Joan Gamper Trophy ahead of the start of the 2026-27 campaign.
The Catalans will face the Egyptian side at the Camp Nou on Wednesday 19 August at 8.00pm local time in the club's traditional curtain-raiser.
Al Ahly will become the first Egyptian club – and the first African side – to take part in the Joan Gamper Trophy but have faced Barcelona before.
The two sides first played in a friendly in 1961 and then met again in 2007 as part of Al Ahly's centenary celebrations.
The game comes after Barcelona's pre-season trip to England for a training camp and pre-season friendly against Birmingham City.
#Barcelona #ahly
The Catalans will face the Egyptian side at the Camp Nou on Wednesday 19 August at 8.00pm local time in the club's traditional curtain-raiser.
Al Ahly will become the first Egyptian club – and the first African side – to take part in the Joan Gamper Trophy but have faced Barcelona before.
The two sides first played in a friendly in 1961 and then met again in 2007 as part of Al Ahly's centenary celebrations.
The game comes after Barcelona's pre-season trip to England for a training camp and pre-season friendly against Birmingham City.
#Barcelona #ahly
5 days ago
African countries must open up their power markets in order to court the private investors needed to supply the electricity that AI will demand, a data center executive told Semafor, as a new report warned the continent risks seeing little economic benefit from the technology.
Africa's economy is barely expanding on a per capita basis, and household living standards are stagnant across the continent. With the labor force projected to almost double by 2050, many African governments fear growing unemployment in the next few years. AI, as in other parts of the world, offers an opportunity to drive economic growth. But Africa only hosts about 160 data centers — around 5.5% of the global total — and aging grids in many African countries mean access to power, the key driver of AI infrastructure expansion, is limited.
In Africa, independent power producers typically sell electricity to state utilities under long‑term power purchase agreements. But private‑to‑private supply — in which a private generator sells directly to an industrial or commercial buyer using the grid, a practice that is commonplace across the West — remains rare on the continent.
In an interview, Robert Skjødt, CEO of Raxio, a data center company that operates in six African countries, said that in many nations, regulatory reform was needed to "allow a private supplier of electricity to supply to a private buyer" while using the grid.
The potential upside is significant: The International Monetary Fund, in a paper published on Tuesday, said AI could make sub-Saharan Africa's economy around 4% bigger over the next decade than its baseline projection — but that requires better electricity supply, internet access, and digital skills. Policymakers and business leaders have long warned that Africa's power shortfall in particular, if left unaddressed, would starve energy-hungry data centers of the electricity needed to digitize economies.
#private #african #needed #many
Africa's economy is barely expanding on a per capita basis, and household living standards are stagnant across the continent. With the labor force projected to almost double by 2050, many African governments fear growing unemployment in the next few years. AI, as in other parts of the world, offers an opportunity to drive economic growth. But Africa only hosts about 160 data centers — around 5.5% of the global total — and aging grids in many African countries mean access to power, the key driver of AI infrastructure expansion, is limited.
In Africa, independent power producers typically sell electricity to state utilities under long‑term power purchase agreements. But private‑to‑private supply — in which a private generator sells directly to an industrial or commercial buyer using the grid, a practice that is commonplace across the West — remains rare on the continent.
In an interview, Robert Skjødt, CEO of Raxio, a data center company that operates in six African countries, said that in many nations, regulatory reform was needed to "allow a private supplier of electricity to supply to a private buyer" while using the grid.
The potential upside is significant: The International Monetary Fund, in a paper published on Tuesday, said AI could make sub-Saharan Africa's economy around 4% bigger over the next decade than its baseline projection — but that requires better electricity supply, internet access, and digital skills. Policymakers and business leaders have long warned that Africa's power shortfall in particular, if left unaddressed, would starve energy-hungry data centers of the electricity needed to digitize economies.
#private #african #needed #many
5 days ago
In 1955, Sunderland embarked on an international tour for the first time since the pre-Second World War trip to Spain in 1935.
The North American tour was scheduled to last just under a month and would include nine matches in all, with four against Huddersfield Town, as well as games against Nuremberg, the Montreal All-Stars, the American Soccer League All-Stars and Philadelphia Uhrik Truckers. The venues included Ebbets Field, the home of the Brooklyn Dodgers baseball team, as well as stadiums in New York and Detroit in the USA, while Montreal, Winnipeg and Toronto made up the Canadian venues.
As the tour drew to a close on this day 69 years ago, Sunderland were preparing to take on Huddersfield for the fourth and final time. Having beaten them 3 – 2 in New York just under a month earlier, and drawn the other two meetings, Sunderland were looking for the victory that would categorically give them the bragging rights in the four-game series over their fellow First Division rivals.
Detroit was bathed in a searing 86-degree heat as a crowd of more than 7,000 gathered to watch two teams weakened by injury. Huddersfield were without Glazzard, while Sunderland were missing South African Ted Purdon and Ken Chisholm, who had both been amongst the goals.
The game had a little extra spice added even before kick-off. The two sides had played each other the previous day in Toronto in what turned out to be a fiercely competitive encounter.
#american #montreal
The North American tour was scheduled to last just under a month and would include nine matches in all, with four against Huddersfield Town, as well as games against Nuremberg, the Montreal All-Stars, the American Soccer League All-Stars and Philadelphia Uhrik Truckers. The venues included Ebbets Field, the home of the Brooklyn Dodgers baseball team, as well as stadiums in New York and Detroit in the USA, while Montreal, Winnipeg and Toronto made up the Canadian venues.
As the tour drew to a close on this day 69 years ago, Sunderland were preparing to take on Huddersfield for the fourth and final time. Having beaten them 3 – 2 in New York just under a month earlier, and drawn the other two meetings, Sunderland were looking for the victory that would categorically give them the bragging rights in the four-game series over their fellow First Division rivals.
Detroit was bathed in a searing 86-degree heat as a crowd of more than 7,000 gathered to watch two teams weakened by injury. Huddersfield were without Glazzard, while Sunderland were missing South African Ted Purdon and Ken Chisholm, who had both been amongst the goals.
The game had a little extra spice added even before kick-off. The two sides had played each other the previous day in Toronto in what turned out to be a fiercely competitive encounter.
#american #montreal
5 days ago
Hangin' em up?
Former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Welterweight kingpin Kamaru Usman suffered a lopsided unanimous decision loss to former Middleweight roost-ruler Dricus du Plessis in the main event of UFC Oklahoma City last weekend (Sat., July 18, 2026) inside Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
While Usman had a strong fifth round, the former Welterweight champion was not very competitive with Du Plessis for most of the fight. He was rocked several times, struggled to close distance and was unable to consistently take the South African down to implement his wrestling game.
As it turns out, there may have been a pretty significant reason for that.
Usman was apparently compromised.
#plessis
Former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Welterweight kingpin Kamaru Usman suffered a lopsided unanimous decision loss to former Middleweight roost-ruler Dricus du Plessis in the main event of UFC Oklahoma City last weekend (Sat., July 18, 2026) inside Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
While Usman had a strong fifth round, the former Welterweight champion was not very competitive with Du Plessis for most of the fight. He was rocked several times, struggled to close distance and was unable to consistently take the South African down to implement his wrestling game.
As it turns out, there may have been a pretty significant reason for that.
Usman was apparently compromised.
#plessis
5 days ago
When India begin their three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe at the Harare Sports Club on Thursday, the spotlight will not only be on the result but also on the fresh faces hoping to begin their international journeys.
Over the years, tours of Zimbabwe have evolved into India's preferred platform for testing emerging talent in the shortest format. Rather than fielding full-strength squads, the BCCI has consistently used these bilateral series to reward standout domestic and IPL performers with their maiden T20I caps.
The numbers underline that trend. A total of 22 Indian men's cricketers have made their T20I debuts against Zimbabwe, making the African nation one of India's most frequent proving grounds for future stars.
India's tradition of handing out debuts in Zimbabwe dates back to 2010. During the two-match T20I series, Virat Kohli, Ravichandran Ashwin and Naman Ojha all made their debuts in the opening game as India secured a comfortable six-wicket win. Kohli remained unbeaten on 26, Ashwin impressed with figures of 1/22, while Ojha managed two runs. In the following match, Amit Mishra became the fourth debutant of the series and returned figures of 1/21.
That tour also marked another milestone, with Suresh Raina captaining India in T20Is for the first time.
Five years later, India again arrived in Zimbabwe with a youthful squad. The 2015 series featured first T20I caps for Manish Pandey, Kedar Jadhav, Stuart Binny, Axar Patel and Sandeep Sharma in the opening game, while Sanju Samson debuted in the second T20I.
Although several batters endured modest starts, Axar Patel stood out with an impressive spell of 3/17. Manish Pandey scored 19, Kedar Jadhav made 9, Stuart Binny contributed 11 and Sandeep Sharma went wicketless. Samson scored 19 off 24 ****** in his maiden appearance.
The same tour also witnessed Ajinkya Rahane making his captaincy debut in both ODIs and T20Is.
India continued the trend in 2016, handing opportunities to another crop of newcomers. KL Rahul, Mandeep Singh, Jaydev Unadkat, Rishi Dhawan and Yuzvendra Chahal all made their T20I debuts in the opening match. It proved a difficult initiation for several players as Zimbabwe posted 170/6. Unadkat, Dhawan and Chahal all endured expensive spells, while Rahul was dismissed for a first-ball duck. Mandeep Singh provided one of the few positives with 31 off 27 ****** , although India lost the match by two runs.
The second T20I brought more debutants. Barinder Sran enjoyed a dream start to his international career, producing figures of 4/10, which remain the best bowling figures by an Indian on T20I debut. Dhawal Kulkarni also debuted in that match and claimed 1/32.
India once again used the Zimbabwe tour in 2024 to blood a fresh batch of youngsters. Abhishek Sharma, Riyan Parag and Dhruv Jurel made their T20I debuts in the opening match of the five-game series. Sai Sudharsan was handed his maiden cap in the second T20I, while Tushar Deshpande made his de
Over the years, tours of Zimbabwe have evolved into India's preferred platform for testing emerging talent in the shortest format. Rather than fielding full-strength squads, the BCCI has consistently used these bilateral series to reward standout domestic and IPL performers with their maiden T20I caps.
The numbers underline that trend. A total of 22 Indian men's cricketers have made their T20I debuts against Zimbabwe, making the African nation one of India's most frequent proving grounds for future stars.
India's tradition of handing out debuts in Zimbabwe dates back to 2010. During the two-match T20I series, Virat Kohli, Ravichandran Ashwin and Naman Ojha all made their debuts in the opening game as India secured a comfortable six-wicket win. Kohli remained unbeaten on 26, Ashwin impressed with figures of 1/22, while Ojha managed two runs. In the following match, Amit Mishra became the fourth debutant of the series and returned figures of 1/21.
That tour also marked another milestone, with Suresh Raina captaining India in T20Is for the first time.
Five years later, India again arrived in Zimbabwe with a youthful squad. The 2015 series featured first T20I caps for Manish Pandey, Kedar Jadhav, Stuart Binny, Axar Patel and Sandeep Sharma in the opening game, while Sanju Samson debuted in the second T20I.
Although several batters endured modest starts, Axar Patel stood out with an impressive spell of 3/17. Manish Pandey scored 19, Kedar Jadhav made 9, Stuart Binny contributed 11 and Sandeep Sharma went wicketless. Samson scored 19 off 24 ****** in his maiden appearance.
The same tour also witnessed Ajinkya Rahane making his captaincy debut in both ODIs and T20Is.
India continued the trend in 2016, handing opportunities to another crop of newcomers. KL Rahul, Mandeep Singh, Jaydev Unadkat, Rishi Dhawan and Yuzvendra Chahal all made their T20I debuts in the opening match. It proved a difficult initiation for several players as Zimbabwe posted 170/6. Unadkat, Dhawan and Chahal all endured expensive spells, while Rahul was dismissed for a first-ball duck. Mandeep Singh provided one of the few positives with 31 off 27 ****** , although India lost the match by two runs.
The second T20I brought more debutants. Barinder Sran enjoyed a dream start to his international career, producing figures of 4/10, which remain the best bowling figures by an Indian on T20I debut. Dhawal Kulkarni also debuted in that match and claimed 1/32.
India once again used the Zimbabwe tour in 2024 to blood a fresh batch of youngsters. Abhishek Sharma, Riyan Parag and Dhruv Jurel made their T20I debuts in the opening match of the five-game series. Sai Sudharsan was handed his maiden cap in the second T20I, while Tushar Deshpande made his de
5 days ago
When the Youth Olympics begin in Senegal in 100 days' time, it will mark a first on African soil.
For all the global icons and champions the continent has provided across events such as athletics, football and boxing, it has never hosted an Olympic competition.
Dakar 2026, which gets under way on 31 October, is set to change that.
"It is monumental," International Olympic Committee (IOC) official Christophe Dubi told BBC Sport Africa.
"Africa has hosted many international competitions, but this is the first time we have anything labelled with the Olympic rings.
#africa #Youth
For all the global icons and champions the continent has provided across events such as athletics, football and boxing, it has never hosted an Olympic competition.
Dakar 2026, which gets under way on 31 October, is set to change that.
"It is monumental," International Olympic Committee (IOC) official Christophe Dubi told BBC Sport Africa.
"Africa has hosted many international competitions, but this is the first time we have anything labelled with the Olympic rings.
#africa #Youth
6 days ago
India begin their three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe at the Harare Sports Club on Thursday, arriving with a run of six consecutive defeats in the format hanging over them.
The reigning T20 World Cup champions have not won a match in the shortest format since March, and a heavily rotated squad featuring Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and several uncapped players will look to end that streak in familiar surroundings.
Harare Sports Club is one of the most established venues in African cricket, having hosted international matches since 1992 and staged a run of **** ociate fixtures during the 2025 T20 World Cup qualifying cycle.
As both sides prepare for the opener, the record books at the venue make for fascinating reading.
#match
The reigning T20 World Cup champions have not won a match in the shortest format since March, and a heavily rotated squad featuring Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and several uncapped players will look to end that streak in familiar surroundings.
Harare Sports Club is one of the most established venues in African cricket, having hosted international matches since 1992 and staged a run of **** ociate fixtures during the 2025 T20 World Cup qualifying cycle.
As both sides prepare for the opener, the record books at the venue make for fascinating reading.
#match
6 days ago
WASHINGTON (AP) — The State Department has informed Congress that it plans to move ahead with the potential reopening of the U.S. Embassy in Libya, proposing to allocate nearly $41 million to restore America's formal diplomatic presence in the North African nation after a near 14-year absence.
The department told lawmakers on Monday that the money would cover "a range of security-related activities ***** ociated with plans for the potential phased resumption of embassy operations in Libya," according to a copy of the notification obtained by The ***** ociated Press.
The move to reopen the embassy "is essential to advancing U.S. national security interests," it said. "The United States must remain engaged in regions where near-peer competitors and other adversarial actors are actively expanding their influence."
"Libya's strategic location on the Mediterranean and its role in regional security, energy markets, and migration flows make it vital to U.S. interests," it said. "The country's instability has drawn increased involvement from near-peer competitors, notably Russia, which threatens U.S. and allied objectives in North Africa."
Libyan officials representing both the western and eastern regions of the country that have been in conflict for more than a decade have recently met with top Trump administration officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and the senior adviser for Africa, Massad Boulos.
#africa #associated
The department told lawmakers on Monday that the money would cover "a range of security-related activities ***** ociated with plans for the potential phased resumption of embassy operations in Libya," according to a copy of the notification obtained by The ***** ociated Press.
The move to reopen the embassy "is essential to advancing U.S. national security interests," it said. "The United States must remain engaged in regions where near-peer competitors and other adversarial actors are actively expanding their influence."
"Libya's strategic location on the Mediterranean and its role in regional security, energy markets, and migration flows make it vital to U.S. interests," it said. "The country's instability has drawn increased involvement from near-peer competitors, notably Russia, which threatens U.S. and allied objectives in North Africa."
Libyan officials representing both the western and eastern regions of the country that have been in conflict for more than a decade have recently met with top Trump administration officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and the senior adviser for Africa, Massad Boulos.
#africa #associated
6 days ago
African football boss Patrice Motsepe offered an emphatic defence of FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Wednesday, portraying him as a devoted steward of the game and friend of the continent.
Infantino has faced growing criticism over FIFA's decision to delay a suspension for United States striker Folarin Balogun at the recently concluded World Cup, as well as the introduction of hydration breaks and the prospect of expanding the men's tournament to 64 teams.
"I like his deep love for football, deep committment for football in the world and support for Africa," Motsepe told journalists in Johannesburg.
Motsepe said the Swiss administrator "had remained loyal" to Africa and played a key role in advancing football across the continent.
"Gianni has played a pivotal role in expanding opportunities for African national teams on the global stage," he said, referring to the increase in Africa's allocation by four direct places and an additional playoff berth. The continent was represented by a record 10 teams at this year's tournament co-hosted by the US, Mexico and Canada.
#motsepe #continent #gianni #africa
Infantino has faced growing criticism over FIFA's decision to delay a suspension for United States striker Folarin Balogun at the recently concluded World Cup, as well as the introduction of hydration breaks and the prospect of expanding the men's tournament to 64 teams.
"I like his deep love for football, deep committment for football in the world and support for Africa," Motsepe told journalists in Johannesburg.
Motsepe said the Swiss administrator "had remained loyal" to Africa and played a key role in advancing football across the continent.
"Gianni has played a pivotal role in expanding opportunities for African national teams on the global stage," he said, referring to the increase in Africa's allocation by four direct places and an additional playoff berth. The continent was represented by a record 10 teams at this year's tournament co-hosted by the US, Mexico and Canada.
#motsepe #continent #gianni #africa
7 days ago
England all-rounder Jacob Bethell has been ruled out of the 2026 edition of The Hundred after sustaining a right knee injury during the recently concluded ODI series against India.
Bethell, who was retained by Birmingham Phoenix for GBP 340,000 ahead of The Hundred's inaugural player auction, had also been appointed captain for the upcoming season. However, an MRI scan conducted on Monday confirmed the extent of the injury, forcing the 22-year-old to withdraw from the tournament. He is set to begin his rehabilitation programme immediately.
The setback comes after a mixed white-ball series against India, where Bethell produced flashes of brilliance despite inconsistent returns. He struck an unbeaten 76 off 46 **** in the second T20I before finishing the ODI series with a composed 91 in the final match.
Birmingham Phoenix head coach Shane Bond admitted the franchise was disappointed to lose both its captain and one of its most influential players but stressed that Bethell's long-term recovery remains the priority.
"We're all incredibly disappointed for Jacob and gutted he won't be able to join us this year. It's frustrating to lose a player of his quality, not least your captain, this close to the tournament, but his long-term fitness has to be the priority. Everyone at the club wishes him the very best with his recovery and we look forward to seeing him back on the field as soon as possible, " Bond said in the official statement released by the franchise.
Bond also confirmed that Donovan Ferreira will take over the captaincy, backing the South African to lead the side.
"In Donovan Ferreira we have a real leader who knows what it takes to go deep into the competition. He's won it before and will be a great person for the younger members of the squad to learn from. We're lucky to have someone of his stature to step into the captaincy," he added.
Reacting to the injury, Bethell expressed his disappointment at missing the tournament, particularly the opportunity to play in front of Birmingham Phoenix supporters at Edgbaston.
"It's frustrating to miss out on The Hundred, especially representing Birmingham Phoenix in front of our supporters at Edgbaston. Unfortunately, I need to take the time to get back to full fitness, " Bethell said in the statement.
Jacob Bethell played a key role for Birmingham Phoenix during The Hundred 2025, featuring in eight matches as a middle-order all-rounder. He scored 122 runs at a strike rate of 143.53 while also picking up three wickets with his left-arm spin, impressing with his finishing ability and versatility. His performances in the tournament proved to be a springboard to international cricket, earning him selection for England's senior white-ball squads later that year.
#captain
Bethell, who was retained by Birmingham Phoenix for GBP 340,000 ahead of The Hundred's inaugural player auction, had also been appointed captain for the upcoming season. However, an MRI scan conducted on Monday confirmed the extent of the injury, forcing the 22-year-old to withdraw from the tournament. He is set to begin his rehabilitation programme immediately.
The setback comes after a mixed white-ball series against India, where Bethell produced flashes of brilliance despite inconsistent returns. He struck an unbeaten 76 off 46 **** in the second T20I before finishing the ODI series with a composed 91 in the final match.
Birmingham Phoenix head coach Shane Bond admitted the franchise was disappointed to lose both its captain and one of its most influential players but stressed that Bethell's long-term recovery remains the priority.
"We're all incredibly disappointed for Jacob and gutted he won't be able to join us this year. It's frustrating to lose a player of his quality, not least your captain, this close to the tournament, but his long-term fitness has to be the priority. Everyone at the club wishes him the very best with his recovery and we look forward to seeing him back on the field as soon as possible, " Bond said in the official statement released by the franchise.
Bond also confirmed that Donovan Ferreira will take over the captaincy, backing the South African to lead the side.
"In Donovan Ferreira we have a real leader who knows what it takes to go deep into the competition. He's won it before and will be a great person for the younger members of the squad to learn from. We're lucky to have someone of his stature to step into the captaincy," he added.
Reacting to the injury, Bethell expressed his disappointment at missing the tournament, particularly the opportunity to play in front of Birmingham Phoenix supporters at Edgbaston.
"It's frustrating to miss out on The Hundred, especially representing Birmingham Phoenix in front of our supporters at Edgbaston. Unfortunately, I need to take the time to get back to full fitness, " Bethell said in the statement.
Jacob Bethell played a key role for Birmingham Phoenix during The Hundred 2025, featuring in eight matches as a middle-order all-rounder. He scored 122 runs at a strike rate of 143.53 while also picking up three wickets with his left-arm spin, impressing with his finishing ability and versatility. His performances in the tournament proved to be a springboard to international cricket, earning him selection for England's senior white-ball squads later that year.
#captain
11 days ago
July 18 (UPI) -- Those born on this date are under the sign of Cancer.
They include:
-- ******* anic survivor Margaret Brown "The Unsinkable Molly Brown" in 1867
-- Comedian Red Skelton in 1913
-- South African leader/Nobel Peace Price laureate Nelson Mandela in 1918
They include:
-- ******* anic survivor Margaret Brown "The Unsinkable Molly Brown" in 1867
-- Comedian Red Skelton in 1913
-- South African leader/Nobel Peace Price laureate Nelson Mandela in 1918
15 days ago
Aldrich Potgieter came in third in the Last Chance Qualifier on Monday morning, but later in the afternoon he found his way into the field of the 154th Open Championship anyway. That's because South Africa's Louis Oosthuizen announced he was withdrawing from the championship at Royal Birkdale, opening a spot for Potgieter, the first alternate and a fellow South African.
No reason was listed for Oosthuizen's WD. The 2010 Open champion has played every year since his victory at St. Andrews except for a WD in 2013. But in three of the last four years he has missed the cut.
Since joining the LIV Golf League in 2022, Oosthuizen, 43, has played in five majors but made the cut only once (T-60, 2022 PGA).
Despite missing out on qualifying at the Last Chance Qualifier, there seemed a reasonable chance Potgieter might have still gotten into the field. Sam Burns had said previously that he wasn't going to play in the Open because his wife is due to have their second child soon, potentially setting himself up for a WD before the event. Matti Schmid now is listed as first alternate, with Andrew Wilson, runner-up in the Last Chances qualifier, the second alternate.
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No reason was listed for Oosthuizen's WD. The 2010 Open champion has played every year since his victory at St. Andrews except for a WD in 2013. But in three of the last four years he has missed the cut.
Since joining the LIV Golf League in 2022, Oosthuizen, 43, has played in five majors but made the cut only once (T-60, 2022 PGA).
Despite missing out on qualifying at the Last Chance Qualifier, there seemed a reasonable chance Potgieter might have still gotten into the field. Sam Burns had said previously that he wasn't going to play in the Open because his wife is due to have their second child soon, potentially setting himself up for a WD before the event. Matti Schmid now is listed as first alternate, with Andrew Wilson, runner-up in the Last Chances qualifier, the second alternate.
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16 days ago
The partner of South Africa World Cup player Jayden Adams has spoken of her loss after his sudden death.
"There are no words to describe the pain I'm feeling," Aqueelah Chloe Adendorf said in a post on Instagram.
"Rest in peace, my love. Thank you for every memory, every laugh, every hug, and every moment we shared. You were not only the love of my life but also my greatest supporter and my best friend."
Adams died aged just 25. Police have launched an investigation after his body was found in a house in a suburb of Cape Town on Saturday morning.
Just weeks earlier, the midfielder for South African club Mamelodi Sundowns had been in action at the World Cup in North America. He played in all three group matches for Bafana Bafana but was an unused substitute in the last-32 loss to Canada.
"There are no words to describe the pain I'm feeling," Aqueelah Chloe Adendorf said in a post on Instagram.
"Rest in peace, my love. Thank you for every memory, every laugh, every hug, and every moment we shared. You were not only the love of my life but also my greatest supporter and my best friend."
Adams died aged just 25. Police have launched an investigation after his body was found in a house in a suburb of Cape Town on Saturday morning.
Just weeks earlier, the midfielder for South African club Mamelodi Sundowns had been in action at the World Cup in North America. He played in all three group matches for Bafana Bafana but was an unused substitute in the last-32 loss to Canada.
17 days ago
Last week Mohamed Salah’s Egypt came within a whisker of eliminating defending champions Argentina from the FIFA World Cup at the round-of-16 stage.
Salah’s side had been 2-0 up going into the closing stages - before some questionable referee calls and a late winner from Enzo Fernandez extinguished their dreams.
But the African representatives bowed out with their heads held high despite the loss. Several players - including goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir - acquitted themselves well and turned the heads of observers.
And perhaps the biggest example of a breakout star during the Egypt World Cup campaign was Haissem Hassan.
The wing wizard - who has just been relegated to the Segunda with Real Oviedo in Spain - was arguably the best player on the pitch versus Argentina.
Salah’s side had been 2-0 up going into the closing stages - before some questionable referee calls and a late winner from Enzo Fernandez extinguished their dreams.
But the African representatives bowed out with their heads held high despite the loss. Several players - including goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir - acquitted themselves well and turned the heads of observers.
And perhaps the biggest example of a breakout star during the Egypt World Cup campaign was Haissem Hassan.
The wing wizard - who has just been relegated to the Segunda with Real Oviedo in Spain - was arguably the best player on the pitch versus Argentina.
17 days ago
The axe has fallen for Pape Thiaw. In a statement released at 4 a.m., the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) announced that it had "decided to initiate proceedings to terminate Pape Thiaw’s duties."
This decision was made following a meeting of the FSF Executive Committee, bringing the coach’s spell at the helm of the Lions of Teranga to an end.
Crowned African champion just 175 days ago – before CAF decided to strip him of that ***** le – Thiaw is paying the price for Senegal’s dismal World Cup campaign. The three defeats suffered during the tournament, elimination as early as the round of 16, and the terrible comeback they allowed against Belgium (2-3) hastened his departure.
Thiaw’s glaring shortcomings in managing the closing stages of matches also ended up damaging his standing with the federation’s leadership and part of the Senegalese fanbase.
According to several sources such as L’Équipe, Patrick Vieira (born in Dakar) and Habib Beye (former Senegal international) appear to be the main favorites to succeed him ahead of the qualifiers and the final phase of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
This decision was made following a meeting of the FSF Executive Committee, bringing the coach’s spell at the helm of the Lions of Teranga to an end.
Crowned African champion just 175 days ago – before CAF decided to strip him of that ***** le – Thiaw is paying the price for Senegal’s dismal World Cup campaign. The three defeats suffered during the tournament, elimination as early as the round of 16, and the terrible comeback they allowed against Belgium (2-3) hastened his departure.
Thiaw’s glaring shortcomings in managing the closing stages of matches also ended up damaging his standing with the federation’s leadership and part of the Senegalese fanbase.
According to several sources such as L’Équipe, Patrick Vieira (born in Dakar) and Habib Beye (former Senegal international) appear to be the main favorites to succeed him ahead of the qualifiers and the final phase of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
17 days ago
South Africa midfielder Jayden Adams has died. He was 25. Adams played for his nation at the World Cup.
His death was confirmed by South Africa's minister of sport, arts and culture Gayton McKenzie in a statement posted on X.
McKenzie says "it is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams." Adams helped South Africa reach the World Cup knockout stage for the first time. Further details of his death were not given. Adams joined Mamelodi Sundowns last year and helped the club win the African Champions League.
Germany officials confident Klopp will be next national team coach.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
His death was confirmed by South Africa's minister of sport, arts and culture Gayton McKenzie in a statement posted on X.
McKenzie says "it is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams." Adams helped South Africa reach the World Cup knockout stage for the first time. Further details of his death were not given. Adams joined Mamelodi Sundowns last year and helped the club win the African Champions League.
Germany officials confident Klopp will be next national team coach.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
17 days ago
South Africa star Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25 with the Bafana Bafana community mourning the shock loss just weeks after he featured at World Cup 2026.
The Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder played three times for his country and was part of Hugo Broos' side that advanced to the last 32, creating history in the first knockout World Cup match in their history before being eliminated by co-hosts Canada.
Adams played all three group games, starting the opener against Mexico and then featuring as a substitute against Czech Republic and South Korea.
Details surrounding Adams' passing remain unclear, with the South African Football Players Union paying tribute to the player in a statement: "The SAFPU is devastated by the untimely passing of Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder, Jayden Adams.
"Jayden had only recently represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage, and distinction.
The Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder played three times for his country and was part of Hugo Broos' side that advanced to the last 32, creating history in the first knockout World Cup match in their history before being eliminated by co-hosts Canada.
Adams played all three group games, starting the opener against Mexico and then featuring as a substitute against Czech Republic and South Korea.
Details surrounding Adams' passing remain unclear, with the South African Football Players Union paying tribute to the player in a statement: "The SAFPU is devastated by the untimely passing of Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder, Jayden Adams.
"Jayden had only recently represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage, and distinction.
17 days ago
South Africa and Scotland tussle on the second weekend of the inaugural Nations Championship.
The pair were both opening round winners, with the Springboks putting England away comprehensively and the Scots impressive in beating Argentina.
Gregor Townsend will know his side face a tall task here, though, even with home head coach Rassie Erasmus freshening up his matchday 23.
It is 12 years since Scotland last played the Springboks on South African soil, while they have failed to muster a try in their last two outings against Erasmus's team.
Here's everything you need to know.
The pair were both opening round winners, with the Springboks putting England away comprehensively and the Scots impressive in beating Argentina.
Gregor Townsend will know his side face a tall task here, though, even with home head coach Rassie Erasmus freshening up his matchday 23.
It is 12 years since Scotland last played the Springboks on South African soil, while they have failed to muster a try in their last two outings against Erasmus's team.
Here's everything you need to know.
17 days ago
South African midfielder Jayden Adams has died at age 25
The soccer player's death comes just weeks after representing his country at the 2026 World Cup
"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 who watched him grow from a promising academy prospect into a full Bafana Bafana international," said South Africa's minister of sports, arts and culture
Jayden Adams, a soccer player who recently represented South Africa at the 2026 World Cup, has died. He was 25.
On Saturday, July 11, the South African Football Players Union announced in a statement shared on X that Adams died after "carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage and distinction" throughout the soccer tournament.
The soccer player's death comes just weeks after representing his country at the 2026 World Cup
"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 who watched him grow from a promising academy prospect into a full Bafana Bafana international," said South Africa's minister of sports, arts and culture
Jayden Adams, a soccer player who recently represented South Africa at the 2026 World Cup, has died. He was 25.
On Saturday, July 11, the South African Football Players Union announced in a statement shared on X that Adams died after "carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage and distinction" throughout the soccer tournament.
17 days ago
South Africa midfielder Jayden Adams has passed away at age 25, just weeks after appearing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the South African Football Players Union confirmed in a statement.
Adams had appeared in all three Group Stage games during Bafana Bafana's run, which included two starts. He started in the 1-1 draw against Czechia, despite his grandmother's death one day prior.
A cause of death has not officially been reported at this time.
"The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) is devastated by the untimely passing of Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder Jayden Adams," a statement released on Saturday morning read.
South Africa was officially eliminated from the tournament on June 28 in the Knockout Stage by co-host nation Canada.
Adams had appeared in all three Group Stage games during Bafana Bafana's run, which included two starts. He started in the 1-1 draw against Czechia, despite his grandmother's death one day prior.
A cause of death has not officially been reported at this time.
"The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) is devastated by the untimely passing of Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder Jayden Adams," a statement released on Saturday morning read.
South Africa was officially eliminated from the tournament on June 28 in the Knockout Stage by co-host nation Canada.
17 days ago
JOHANNESBURG (AP) — South Africa midfielder Jayden Adams, who played at the World Cup, has died. He was 25.
His death was confirmed by Gayton McKenzie, South Africa's minister of sport, arts and culture, in a statement on Saturday.
"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 posted on X.
"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."
Adams helped South Africa reach the World Cup knockout stage for the first time.
His death was confirmed by Gayton McKenzie, South Africa's minister of sport, arts and culture, in a statement on Saturday.
"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 posted on X.
"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."
Adams helped South Africa reach the World Cup knockout stage for the first time.
17 days ago
The Egyptian King departed on a free transfer when his contract expired at the end of June. Salah, 34, is now free to pick his next club after reaching an agreement to rip up his £400k per week deal one year early.
The all-time Liverpool legend has been linked with moves to Al-Ittihad and Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia while teams in Europe including Juventus, Roma, Galatasaray and Fenerbahce would dearly love to have him on board.
Salah is coming off the back of a FIFA World Cup campaign with Egypt - where he helped the Pharaohs reach the round-of-16 stage before elimination by Argentina last week.
The transfer race will surely heat up once the two-time African footballer of the year completes his summer break. And right now there remains the possibility that Salah heads BACK to the United States following the World Cup campaign.
Because the Athletic is reporting that the left-footed attacker is a surprise target for ambitious Major League Soccer side Sporting Kansas City.
The all-time Liverpool legend has been linked with moves to Al-Ittihad and Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia while teams in Europe including Juventus, Roma, Galatasaray and Fenerbahce would dearly love to have him on board.
Salah is coming off the back of a FIFA World Cup campaign with Egypt - where he helped the Pharaohs reach the round-of-16 stage before elimination by Argentina last week.
The transfer race will surely heat up once the two-time African footballer of the year completes his summer break. And right now there remains the possibility that Salah heads BACK to the United States following the World Cup campaign.
Because the Athletic is reporting that the left-footed attacker is a surprise target for ambitious Major League Soccer side Sporting Kansas City.
17 days ago
JOHANNESBURG, July 9 (Reuters) - Groups of anti-immigration South Africans seized foreigners from their homes in Johannesburg on Thursday and handed them to police in a hardening of protests that have sown fear in communities and strained ties with some countries.
In Johannesburg's Alexandra township, a Reuters reporter saw protesters breaking down doors and entering houses where they believed undocumented immigrants were hiding.
They escorted the people to police vans where they were taken away, including a woman and a small child from Malawi. Another man who was apprehended by the marchers told Reuters he was in the country legally.
"I am a ZEP holder," said the Zimbabwean national, Total Mhlanga, referring to the Zimbabwean Exemption Permit which allows tens of thousands of nationals to live and work in South Africa.
In Soweto, anti-immigrant protesters marched through town wielding sticks and flags, with plans to go search for undocumented immigrants. Several of the flyers for Thursday's protests advertised a "peaceful march" followed by "door to door". Another march took place in Durban on the east coast.
In Johannesburg's Alexandra township, a Reuters reporter saw protesters breaking down doors and entering houses where they believed undocumented immigrants were hiding.
They escorted the people to police vans where they were taken away, including a woman and a small child from Malawi. Another man who was apprehended by the marchers told Reuters he was in the country legally.
"I am a ZEP holder," said the Zimbabwean national, Total Mhlanga, referring to the Zimbabwean Exemption Permit which allows tens of thousands of nationals to live and work in South Africa.
In Soweto, anti-immigrant protesters marched through town wielding sticks and flags, with plans to go search for undocumented immigrants. Several of the flyers for Thursday's protests advertised a "peaceful march" followed by "door to door". Another march took place in Durban on the east coast.
17 days ago
South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25, just weeks after featuring for his country at the World Cup.
Adams featured in all three of South Africa's group games at the tournament, where they reached the knockout stages before losing to co-hosts Canada in the round of 32.
"It is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams," South Africa's minister of sport, arts and culture Gayton McKenzie said, in a statement.
"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 who watched him grow from a promising academy prospect into a full Bafana Bafana international."
Police in South Africa said they had opened an investigation after the body of a 25-year-old man was found at a house in Schotschekloof, a suburb in central Cape Town, on Saturday morning.
Adams featured in all three of South Africa's group games at the tournament, where they reached the knockout stages before losing to co-hosts Canada in the round of 32.
"It is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams," South Africa's minister of sport, arts and culture Gayton McKenzie said, in a statement.
"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 who watched him grow from a promising academy prospect into a full Bafana Bafana international."
Police in South Africa said they had opened an investigation after the body of a 25-year-old man was found at a house in Schotschekloof, a suburb in central Cape Town, on Saturday morning.
17 days ago
An event in Philadelphia focused on preserving the legacy of the Negro Leagues through education, storytelling, and community engagement.
The Action Cam was at the Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia in Center City for the ceremony on Friday.
Phillies legend, Ryan Howard, spoke about the importance of honoring baseball's African American history, and ensuring those stories are preserved for future generations.
Howard also presented a $20,000 check in support of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, which is in Kansas City, Missouri.
Howard says he used to visit the museum every year before training camp, as a pre-season ritual, to pay homage to those who came before him.
The Action Cam was at the Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia in Center City for the ceremony on Friday.
Phillies legend, Ryan Howard, spoke about the importance of honoring baseball's African American history, and ensuring those stories are preserved for future generations.
Howard also presented a $20,000 check in support of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, which is in Kansas City, Missouri.
Howard says he used to visit the museum every year before training camp, as a pre-season ritual, to pay homage to those who came before him.
17 days ago
South African midfielder Jayden Adams has died at age 25 less than three weeks after helping his country advance out of World Cup group play for the first time.
The Mamelodi Sundowns player started South Africa's first two games, a 2-0 defeat against host Mexico and a 1-1 draw against Czechia. He then came off the bench in the 1-0 upset victory over South Korea that sent South Africa to the round of 32.
"The South African Football Players Union is devastated by the untimely passing of Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder, Jayden Adams," the SAFPU said in a statement Saturday. "Jayden had only recently represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage and distinction. His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, teammates, clubs, the football fraternity and the country at large."
Neither the SAFPU nor the South African Football ***** ociation immediately returned emails from Yahoo Sports seeking further information on the timing or cause of Adams' death.
Adams came through the youth system of South African club Stellenbosch FC, becoming their first academy product to sign a professional contract. He made 139 appearances for Stellenbosch before joining Mamelodi Sundowns in January 2025.
The Mamelodi Sundowns player started South Africa's first two games, a 2-0 defeat against host Mexico and a 1-1 draw against Czechia. He then came off the bench in the 1-0 upset victory over South Korea that sent South Africa to the round of 32.
"The South African Football Players Union is devastated by the untimely passing of Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder, Jayden Adams," the SAFPU said in a statement Saturday. "Jayden had only recently represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage and distinction. His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, teammates, clubs, the football fraternity and the country at large."
Neither the SAFPU nor the South African Football ***** ociation immediately returned emails from Yahoo Sports seeking further information on the timing or cause of Adams' death.
Adams came through the youth system of South African club Stellenbosch FC, becoming their first academy product to sign a professional contract. He made 139 appearances for Stellenbosch before joining Mamelodi Sundowns in January 2025.
