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.

Adams helped South Africa reach the World Cup knockout stage for the first time. He started South Africa’s first Group A game against the Czech Republic and was substituted at halftime. McKenzie said he played that game only hours after learning that his grandmother had died.

Adams played several seasons for Stellenbosch before joining Mamelodi Sundowns last year. He helped the club win the CAF (African) Champions League this year.

The cause of Jayden’s passing has not yet been confirmed, according to McKenzie. “I wish to appeal to members of the media and the public to exercise restraint and compassion, and to refrain from speculation,” he said.

South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa and the South African Football Players Union also expressed their condolences.

Original reporting: NBC Connecticut — read the source article.