IOL Sport’s Michael Sherman had a close-up look at the bold and patriotic appeal of the new Bafana Bafana Fifa World Cup jersey, voted the best-looking strip, and felt the optimism it inspires despite its hefty price tag of R1599. Picture: Michael Sherman/IOL
Image: Michael Sherman/IOL
With the Fifa World Cup now less than a month away, it really is time to get behind Bafana Bafana, and the best way to do that is by purchasing the official supporters’ jersey.
Right? In theory, that’s the obvious choice, but at R1599, it’s a hefty investment for the average South African, and I’m no exception.
But when I walked into Sportsmans Warehouse at the Mall of Africa the other day, the first thing I saw was about 20 Bafana jerseys right at the entrance.
In fact, even if you’re just walking past the shop in the mall, you’ll definitely notice the jersey. You simply can’t miss it.
Even though I had only gone in to do a bit of window shopping for running shoes, I couldn’t help but gravitate towards what has already been voted the best-looking strip of the Fifa World Cup. The striking dark green, the lines running down the shirt and the attention to detail when you see it up close are quite mesmerising.
I simply had to try it on and, even though I’m no gym bunny, I felt like I was in excellent shape looking in the mirror, almost as if I could be good enough to play for Bafana.
Of course, that’s all just fantasy, but the shirt helps you dream, and those warm feelings of optimism are exactly what a jersey like this is supposed to inspire.
Yes, it’s a lot of money to ‘prove’ your support for Bafana, but I can genuinely see why this bold, patriotic piece of apparel is selling like hot cakes.