2026 World Cup: Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates success can drive South Africa – Jayden Adams

Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams believes the recent success of South Africa’s biggest clubs can provide the perfect platform for Bafana Bafana ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup.

Sundowns ended a decade-long wait for continental glory after defeating AS FAR 2-1 on aggregate to lift the CAF Champions League title, while Orlando Pirates sealed the Betway Premiership crown with a 2-0 victory over Orbit College on Saturday.

With players from both clubs expected to form the backbone of South Africa’s World Cup squad, Adams feels the momentum generated at club level could benefit the national side when the tournament begins in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

“I think it is very important for Bafana Bafana. I think for us also as a team going into the World Cup,” Adams told reporters after Sundowns’ triumph.

“I think just to boost us from both sides, from Pirates and Sundowns’ side, just to get together and fight for the country.”

Sundowns finally reclaim continental crown

For Adams, the Champions League success represented the reward for months of sacrifice and persistence from a squad that had faced repeated disappointment in recent seasons.

The Brazilians had fallen short in previous campaigns, including last year’s final defeat to Pyramids FC, but this time they held firm to secure the coveted second star on the club badge.

“This is a cherry on top for the season. We worked hard for this moment and finally we got the second star,” he said.

“I think the fighting spirit from our side was just 100%.”

Adams highlighted the importance of Teboho Mokoena’s equaliser, admitting it transformed the mood within the squad during the decisive stages of the contest.

“The goal changed the mood a lot. I think going into the second half, we told ourselves we can’t concede another one and we fought for each other and for the team and gave it everything.”

Williams eyes strong World Cup campaign

Sundowns captain and goalkeeper Ronwen Williams echoed Adams’ sentiments, saying the achievements at club level should now serve as motivation for South Africa on the global stage.

Williams admitted the campaign had been physically demanding, with both club and international commitments stretching players throughout the season, but believes the experience gained could prove valuable at the World Cup.

“It’s been a tough season and tough year for me, playing so many games,” Williams said.

“It’s not easy and I can feel that this was not my best campaign, and we as a team will just be better.”

The goalkeeper is hopeful South Africa can carry their confidence into the international tournament before finally getting a chance to recover after a demanding football calendar.

“Hopefully now we can go as a team, SA and have a wonderful World Cup and, after that, we will have much-needed rest to clear our minds and look forward to another season again.”

Mental strength behind Sundowns’ success

Williams also reflected on the emotional significance of finally ending Sundowns’ long wait for continental success.

Having suffered heartbreak in previous editions of the competition, the goalkeeper believes the triumph was built on resilience and character developed over several difficult years.

“For us to pull through, it speaks volumes to the mentality and character,” he said.

“This means for the 10 years that we suffered as a club, we fully deserve it.”

With both Sundowns and Pirates enjoying landmark campaigns, South African football heads into the World Cup with renewed belief that domestic dominance can translate into international progress.