Bafana Bafana’s Historic AFCON Victory Jersey Sells Out After Morocco
Bafana Bafana’s eye-catching white and grey jersey, worn during their historic Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory against Morocco in the round of 16, has become a sought-after item, with kit sponsor LeCoq Sportif confirming that it is sold out.
Bafana Bafana’s alternative kit for 2023 Afcon
The memorable win against Morocco, which saw goals from Evidence Makgopa and a stunning free-kick by Teboho Mokoena, has had a significant impact on the popularity of the jersey.
LeCoq Sportif marketing manager Courtney Williams expressed excitement about the overwhelming response, noting that they are now working on a top-up order to meet the high demand.
“It is exciting news because firstly we were trying to manage the stock levels, and we have spoken to the team, and we were looking at launching it at AFCON against Morocco,” said Williams.
“With the team doing well, then the jersey picked it up, and we have been inundated with requests online, and then that got sold out immediately. But we are doing a bit of a top-up order now, and we are pushing it through the stores.”
This marks a significant moment for LeCoq Sportif in South Africa, as it is the first time the brand has experienced such a reaction.
The white kit has become a fan favourite
Williams attributed the success to the local designer who crafted the jerseys and the unique stories behind them, including the black jersey for Banyana Banyana.
“People liked the story, and then we went to the black jersey for Banyana that they debuted at the World Cup (last year), and that was a bit of a story as well.”
“We went with it because Banyana got the black jersey, we wanted to do all white and silver grey for Bafana Bafana for the AFCON,” explained Williams.
The marketing manager emphasized that the team’s success on the field plays a crucial role in the popularity of the jersey:
“Your best marketing tool, for any jersey, is when the team does well.”
“When the team plays well, the team performs, people will want to wear the jersey.”
What’s next for Bafana Bafana
As Bafana Bafana aims for a spot in the semifinals by facing Cape Verde Island in the quarter-finals, Williams hopes that the team’s continued success will keep the buzz around the jersey alive.
LeCoq Sportif has prepared for potential increased demand by placing preliminary orders and distributing stock to various stores.
“We are prepared for that (to have more stock if they win), we have placed preliminary orders to try and top-up,” said Williams.
The match against Cape Verde promises to be a grudge match, as the Blue Sharks had dashed Bafana’s hopes in the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, leaving coach Stuart Baxter disappointed.
Also Read: Evidence Makgopa Responds to Critics: ‘I Can’t Force Fans to Love Me