Before the first ball is kicked on the green carpet of Morocco’s stadiums, another contest is already unfolding — not on grass, but on the red carpet of arrival halls.
As delegations to the 35th Africa Cup of Nations touched down across Moroccan cities, football momentarily took a back seat to culture, heritage and sartorial pride. From flowing robes to richly embroidered fabrics, teams have been making statements long before naming their starting elevens.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles were among the early trendsetters, arriving in Fez clad in the flamboyant Buba and Sokoto, a classic ensemble deeply rooted in Yoruba tradition. The attire, with its wide sleeves and flowing trousers, blended elegance with confidence — a quiet reminder that Nigerian football, like its culture, travels with unmistakable presence.
From Nigeria’s western flank, the Benin Republic delegation arrived wearing Tako, the highly symbolic traditional dress of the Baatonu people of northern Benin. More than mere clothing, Tako reflects identity, dignity and continuity — values that mirror Benin’s steady rise on the African football scene.
The Comoros Islands, one of the tournament’s most compelling stories in recent editions, opted for Kandu, an ankle-length robe traditionally worn by men. Simple yet dignified, the outfit echoed the island nation’s humility and resilience — qualities that have made them an increasingly respected force on the pitch.
Former champions Senegal brought understated luxury to the arrivals, stepping out in elegant, flowing gowns typical of Senegalese formal wear.
Often crafted from fine fabrics and finished with intricate embroidery, the outfits projected confidence befitting a side accustomed to winning football’s biggest African prizes.
What has emerged is a colourful prelude to the football festival — a reminder that the Africa Cup of Nations is more than goals and trophies. It is also a celebration of the continent’s shared heritage, diverse identities and expressive cultures.
As teams settle into camp and attention shifts to tactics, line-ups and group permutations, one question lingers playfully in the air:
If AFCON awarded a trophy for style and cultural expression, which nation would be lifting it already?
For now, the only verdict is unanimous — Africa is winning, in colour, culture and confidence, even before the opening whistle
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