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As the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) gears up for a grand kickoff in Ivory Coast on January 13, it's not just the teams and the starting lineups that are drawing attention.
For many football enthusiasts, the tournament is also a celebration of the iconic football kits that have become synonymous with the event's rich history.
In the spirit of this fashion parade, BBC Sport Africa, with insights from Josh Warwick of Cult Kits, put together an exclusive list of the most memorable shirts from the past three decades of Afcon.
Cameroon 2002 (Home) - "A New Generation of Shirt"
The 2002 Cameroon kit, a bold sleeveless design by Puma, made waves and headlines alike. Eric Djemba-Djemba's surprise and pride in wearing the sleeveless shirt resonate with fans across Africa.
Despite FIFA's ban and subsequent modifications to the kit, its impact was monumental. It even inspired Serena Williams, who sported a similar design at the French Open. Cameroon's experimental spirit continued with their onesie kit in 2004, although it faced a similar fate from FIFA.
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South Africa 1996 (Home) - "Absolute Mayhem"
South Africa's 1996 home kit marked their Afcon debut and a historic win, celebrated by none other than President Nelson Mandela.
The vibrant design by Kappa, a stark contrast to the current yellow, is a much sought-after collector's item, cherished for its unique aesthetics and the triumph it symbolizes.
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Nigeria 2019 (Home) - "Insanely Popular"
Nigeria's 2018 World Cup kit, also worn in Afcon 2019, set a new benchmark for football shirt popularity. With its homage to the 1994 design, it became an instant classic, symbolizing the bold and vibrant spirit of Nigerian football.
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Zambia 2012 (Home) - "Underdog Victory"
Zambia's 2012 home shirt is remembered not just for its design but for the remarkable underdog story it represents. Their victory in Gabon was a poignant tribute to the 1993 Zambian team, adding a deeper meaning to the kit's legacy.
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Mali 2021 (Home) - "Vibrant Symbolism"
Mali's kit, adorned with the national eagle, stands out for its bright colors and striking graphics. It's a testament to Mali's vibrant presence in the tournament, both on the field and in terms of style.
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Tunisia 2010 (Away) - "Sash and Gold Trim"
Tunisia's 2010 away kit, with its stylish sash and gold trim, is described as an "absolute, undisputed fact" of beauty by Warwick.
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Ghana 2015 (Home) - "Cool Collar"
Ghana's 2015 home kit, with its unique collar, ranks high among the nation's all-time great shirts.
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Zimbabwe 2021 (Away) - "Assault on the Eyes"
Zimbabwe's 2021 away kit is praised for its bold brush strokes of color, making it a recent favorite.
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Angola 2010 (Home) - "More Antelopes, Please!"
Angola's 2010 home shirt, with its unique features and the giant sable antelope graphic, is a standout piece in football fashion.
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Uganda 2017 (Home) - "Simple Yet Elegant"
Uganda's switch to a red home jersey in 2017 brought a fresh and simple elegance to their football kit.
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The Afcon tournament is not just a football event; it's a celebration of culture, passion, and style. As we look forward to the 2023 edition, these kits remind us of the rich tapestry of African football, where fashion and football intertwine to create a legacy that transcends the sport.
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