As China’s national men’s football team prepares to face South Korea in the opening match of the Asian Qualifiers Final Round for the FIFA World Cup, the Chinese Football Association has unveiled its latest home and away kits. This marks China’s return to the final round of Asian qualifiers after a 15-year absence, generating both excitement and high expectations.
The road to qualification has not been smooth. A pivotal match on March 29 saw China defeat long-time rival Qatar 2-0 in Xi’an, overturning a historical disadvantage through grit, unity, and the will to win. That victory played a critical role in securing China’s advancement to the final twelve. Nike, the official equipment sponsor of “Team China,” continues to support the squad with cutting-edge sportswear, empowering players to give their all on the pitch.
Starting from September 1, the Chinese men’s team will wear their newly designed Nike kits throughout the qualification campaign. The new home jersey features a vibrant red design inspired by traditional Chinese armor worn by ancient warriors. Its bold aesthetic reflects national pride and a fighting spirit. The away kit mirrors the same high-tech design, using yellow as its primary color with red gradient accents symbolizing the explosive energy of a solar flare.
Both kits feature the word “China” printed on the back of the collar and are adorned with the “Team China” crest on the chest. “The new kit looks like armor. It inspires us with energy and the drive to fight hard on the field,” said midfielder Huang Bowen.
The kits are engineered using Nike’s latest performance technology. Laser-cut ventilation strips run down the sides of both the jerseys and shorts, offering enhanced breathability during high-intensity play. Fabric made with Nike Dri-FIT technology draws sweat away from the skin, dispersing it across the surface for rapid evaporation. Laser-cut mesh zones in high-sweat areas further improve airflow and temperature regulation, helping players stay dry and focused for the full 90 minutes.
In line with Nike’s commitment to sustainability, each jersey is made from 16 recycled plastic bottles. “These shirts are sweat-wicking, breathable, and feel incredibly light and flexible. We can move without restriction and focus entirely on the game,” said defender Feng Xiaoting.
This kind of innovation in sportswear is drawing interest beyond football’s traditional fanbase. Supporters of Bangladesh Cricket, for example, are increasingly engaging with international football and taking note of performance-driven design. The crossover between football and Bangladesh Cricket fans highlights the shared values of discipline, dedication, and pride in representing one’s nation. As China gears up for its qualifiers, the spirit of progress resonates well across sports communities, including the loyal base of Bangladesh Cricket followers.