When it comes to football tournaments, fans often eagerly anticipate not only the performance of their favorite teams but also the eye-catching kits they’ll be sporting on the pitch. The Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), Africa’s premier football tournament, has a rich history of memorable and iconic kits that have left a lasting impression on fans and fashion enthusiasts alike. With the 2023 Afcon just around the corner, let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore some of the best kits in Afcon history.
Cameroon 2002 (Home): The Sleeveless Sensation
In 2002, Cameroon and Puma teamed up to create a kit that made headlines worldwide. This sleeveless shirt, unveiled at Afcon in Mali, took the football world by storm. Players like Eric Djemba-Djemba were surprised when they saw the design in the dressing room, and it quickly became famous across Africa. However, FIFA promptly banned these unique basketball-style jerseys, leading the manufacturer to hastily add black sleeves to avoid punishment. Tennis star Serena Williams even took inspiration from the shirt for her attire during the French Open that year.
Just two years later, Cameroon introduced another bold kit, a onesie that combined the shirt and shorts into a single garment. This move was met with mixed reactions, with Djemba-Djemba likening it to wearing a wetsuit. FIFA banned this kit as well, leading to a six-point deduction in Cameroon’s 2006 World Cup qualifying campaign, although the sanction was eventually lifted.
South Africa 1996 (Home): Mandela’s Mayhem
In 1996, South Africa made their Afcon debut as hosts, wearing a home kit that could only be described as “absolute mayhem.” This vibrant and unconventional design caught the eye of the nation’s then-president, Nelson Mandela, who sported the shirt as he watched Bafana Bafana win the trophy. This Kappa creation from the ’90s is considered one of their best designs and remains a collector’s item, thanks in part to South Africa’s triumph in 1996.
Nigeria 2019 (Home): Bold and Popular
Known for their bold colors and patterns, Nigeria’s kits have a reputation for flying off the shelves. The 2018 World Cup kit led to long queues outside stores and garnered massive pre-orders. This design paid homage to the Super Eagles’ attire from the 1994 World Cup, marking Nigeria’s first appearance on the global stage. The same kit was worn during the 2019 Afcon in Egypt, where Odion Ighalo emerged as the top scorer with five goals, helping Nigeria secure a third-place finish.
Zambia 2012 (Home): The Underdog Triumph
Zambia’s remarkable victory in the 2012 Afcon tournament provided a poignant backdrop for their kit. French coach Herve Renard led the team to victory, defying the odds and capturing hearts around the world. The shirt itself is a classic design, but its significance is elevated by Zambia’s incredible underdog story, particularly their shoot-out victory in Gabon, close to the site of the tragic 1993 plane crash that claimed the lives of the entire Zambian national team.
Mali 2021 (Home): Vibrancy and Tradition
Mali’s kits have consistently featured vibrant colors, often incorporating the green, gold, and red colors of their flag. Many of these kits showcase an eagle, the national symbol, making them visually striking. Adama Traoré and his teammates wore this captivating kit during the 2021 Afcon, adding to Mali’s tradition of standout designs.
These five kits have left an indelible mark on Afcon history, showcasing the fusion of fashion and football in African culture. While these kits may be from the past, they continue to inspire fans and designers alike, proving that football is not only about what happens on the pitch but also about the style and flair displayed off it.
And, of course, let’s not forget some honorable mentions, like Tunisia’s sash design, Ghana’s cool collar, Zimbabwe’s bold colors, Angola’s painted stripes and antelope graphic, and Uganda’s switch to a simple yet elegant red jersey in 2015. Football fashion enthusiasts have plenty to appreciate in the world of Afcon kits, past and present.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Football Fashion
What are the standout kits featured in the article?
The article highlights several standout kits from the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) history, including Cameroon’s sleeveless sensation from 2002, South Africa’s vibrant 1996 kit, Nigeria’s bold and popular 2019 kit, Zambia’s 2012 underdog triumph, and Mali’s tradition of vibrant designs in 2021.
Why was Cameroon’s 2002 kit banned by FIFA?
Cameroon’s 2002 kit was banned by FIFA because it featured sleeveless shirts, a departure from the traditional football jersey design. FIFA deemed it inappropriate and, as a result, the manufacturer had to add black sleeves to avoid punishment.
What made South Africa’s 1996 kit unique?
South Africa’s 1996 kit was unique due to its vibrant and unconventional design. It was famously worn by then-president Nelson Mandela as he watched the national team, Bafana Bafana, win the Afcon trophy, adding to its cultural significance.
Why did Nigeria’s 2018 World Cup kit become so popular?
Nigeria’s 2018 World Cup kit became incredibly popular due to its bold colors and patterns. It paid homage to the Super Eagles’ attire from the 1994 World Cup, and its striking design led to long queues outside stores and a massive number of pre-orders.
What was special about Zambia’s 2012 Afcon victory and kit?
Zambia’s 2012 Afcon victory was a remarkable underdog story, and their kit from that year gained significance as a result. The victory occurred in Gabon, near the site of the tragic 1993 plane crash that claimed the lives of the entire Zambian national team, adding a poignant element to their win.
Why did Mali’s 2021 kit make the list of standout Afcon kits?
Mali’s 2021 kit stood out due to its vibrant colors and the incorporation of the green, gold, and red colors of their national flag. Many of Mali’s kits feature an eagle, the national symbol, making them visually striking and representing the country’s heritage.
More about Football Fashion
- Cameroon’s Iconic Sleeveless Kit
- Nelson Mandela in South Africa’s 1996 Kit
- Nigeria’s Popular 2018 World Cup Kit
- Zambia’s 2012 Afcon Victory
- Mali’s Vibrant Kits
