AFCON 2025: Cameroon’s new kits spark fierce backlash online

Cameroon’s unveiling of their new kits for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations has ignited a storm of criticism, overshadowing what was intended to be a celebratory moment for the Indomitable Lions’ campaign.

The presentation, held on Friday in the presence of FECAFOOT president Samuel Eto’o and national icon Roger Milla, marked the official launch of the team’s outfits designed by sportswear brand Fourteen.

But instead of generating excitement, the reveal triggered immediate and widespread mockery across social media, reflecting the tense atmosphere surrounding the national team this year.

Three kits were introduced for the tournament: a traditional green home jersey, a lighter-toned away kit, and a third alternative strip.

It was the third option—featuring a deep, dark green far removed from Cameroon’s familiar vibrant shade—that caused the biggest reaction.

Worn by Samuel Eto’o during the presentation and expected to be used in the group-stage match against Ivory Coast, the kit’s unusual colour prompted confusion and disapproval among supporters.

🎥 Retour en images sur la présentation des nouveaux maillots des Lions indomptables #CAN2025 par Roger Milla, Samuel Eto’o, Moustik le Karismarik et Béatrice Doudou. 👕🇨🇲 pic.twitter.com/tzUzAIkezw

— AllezLesLions (@AllezLesLions) December 12, 2025

For many fans, the shift in tone felt too drastic, clashing with the nation’s footballing identity.

Within minutes, reactions flooded social media, with posts criticising both the design and the decision-making behind it.

One widely shared comment on X read: “This is awful, are we going to the carnival or playing in the Africa Cup of Nations?” Another post that quickly gained traction echoed the overall sentiment. Have we become like Mali?

The comparison to Mali’s national team became a recurring theme, as supporters pointed out similarities between the new design and the Eagles’ well-known green kits.

For fans already frustrated by months of administrative disputes, inconsistent results and changes within the technical staff, the jersey launch became yet another flashpoint.

The discontent adds to what has already been a turbulent year for the Indomitable Lions.

📸 Les nouveaux maillots Fourteen des Lions indomptables pour la CAN 2025. 👕🇨🇲 pic.twitter.com/XuY2ya6XIX

— AllezLesLions (@AllezLesLions) December 12, 2025

Off-field controversies have repeatedly overshadowed preparations for AFCON, and the unveiling of the jerseys—typically a moment of unity and anticipation—has instead deepened the sense of disconnect between the federation and its supporters.

As the tournament draws closer, attention will turn to whether the team’s performances in Morocco can help shift the narrative.

Strong results could soften criticism around the kit launch, but for now, the unveiling has become another symbol of the pressure surrounding Cameroon’s AFCON campaign.