Unique: Nigeria’s Super Eagles arrived in style
Flamboyant and yet with a class of tradition in their outfits en route to the Fifa 2018 World Cup, Nigeria have already won over so many hearts mostly off the pitch and on the social media streets.
Experts in fashion capitals stretching from Cape Town to Dakar and as far as the Milan, New York and Paris walkways have already saluted the Nigerian jersey that for all its pomp, draws you in and reveals an inner strength.
With inspiration from their nickname – the Super Eagles, designer Peter Hopkins says he embraced the confidence that eagles display and had that reflected through the neon green patterns relaying the Nigerian spirit.
Those who know Nigerians will tell you that they come off even from first impression as a people that have a bubbling feel about them. Some think it is pride and sheer arrogance but you would be forgiven for they are a true representation of confidence.
In a conversation with this columnist, a chuckling Nigeria head coach Gernot Rohr admitted: “We already have the number one jersey and now you think we have the Fashion World Cup? We wear it with pride.”
The German tactician, who is enjoying every bit of the journey so far, knows the task ahead is a tough one but he believes his players will take inspiration from the Fashion World Cup trophy.
Looking back at the launch of their kit on June 1 when it sold out 15 minutes after going onto the market with three million jerseys sold worldwide and a rather long queue outside the Nike store on Regent Street in Oxford, London, it is safe to say that owning the Nigerian jersey is the stylish statement of this World Cup.
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