CAF Champions League expansion proposal offers Al Ahly fresh hope

Al Ahly’s chances of featuring in the 2026/27 CAF Champions League have received a major boost following growing support for a proposal to increase the number of participating clubs in Africa’s premier club competition.

The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) has submitted a proposal to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) seeking an expansion of the number of teams allowed to participate in both the CAF Champions League and the CAF Confederation Cup.

Al Ahly’s hopes are closely linked to the potential amendment, as the club’s position in the Egyptian Premier League standings last season would currently place them in the Confederation Cup rather than the Champions League.

However, if CAF approves the proposed changes, the record African champions could find themselves back among the continent’s elite clubs competing in the Champions League next season.

CAF considers Champions League expansion

Reports indicate that the proposal presented by Egyptian Football Association president Hani Abu Rida has gained significant momentum within CAF, with members of the Executive Committee reportedly showing initial support for the idea.

The proposal is now moving closer to the approval stage, although final confirmation is still required through official CAF meetings before any changes are implemented.

According to reports, the matter has progressed beyond the initial evaluation phase, with CAF now examining the practical arrangements required to introduce possible modifications to the competition format.

Decision deadline extended

The CAF Competitions Committee has reportedly postponed the deadline for receiving the official lists of clubs participating in continental competitions.

The submission deadline has been moved to August instead of the final week of July, giving CAF additional time to assess the proposal and make any necessary adjustments to the qualification system.

The extension has increased optimism among clubs hoping for changes, including Al Ahly, who could benefit significantly if CAF approves additional Champions League places.

Proposed changes favour Champions League only

The expected amendment is understood to focus specifically on the CAF Champions League, while the Confederation Cup format would remain unchanged.

This means the number of representatives in Africa’s top club competition could increase, while participation in the second-tier continental tournament would continue under the current structure.

Such a change would have major implications for several African football nations, particularly those with strong domestic leagues and multiple competitive clubs.

Morocco among biggest beneficiaries

If the proposal is officially approved, Morocco would be among the biggest winners.

The country could see its number of CAF Champions League representatives increase to three clubs, with RS Berkane, Raja Casablanca and Maghreb Fes potentially earning places after finishing last season in qualifying positions.

However, Moroccan representation in the CAF Confederation Cup would reportedly remain unchanged, with only FAR Rabat and Wydad Athletic Club taking part, as the expected amendment would not affect the second continental competition.

Al Ahly await CAF decision

For Al Ahly, the possible expansion represents a significant opportunity to maintain their status as one of Africa’s leading clubs.

The Cairo-based side has dominated African football for years, winning a record number of CAF Champions League titles and regularly competing at the highest continental level.

Missing out on the Champions League would have been a major setback for the club, both competitively and financially, given the prestige and revenue associated with Africa’s premier club tournament.

With CAF yet to make an official announcement, Al Ahly and other affected clubs will continue monitoring developments closely.

Should the proposal receive final approval, the Egyptian giants could secure a return to the Champions League stage for the 2026/27 season, despite their current qualification position.