CAF to introduce VAR from group stage of Champions League and Confederation Cup

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) will introduce video assistant referee technology (VAR) from the group stage of the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup.

VAR had previously been used in both competitions only during the knockout rounds. The change means matches from the group stage onwards will now be covered by the technology for the first time.

CAF secretary general Samson Adamu confirmed the decision during a conference.

“The use of the video assistant referee (VAR) from the group stage in the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup has been approved,” he said.

The announcement was made during the CAF Strategy Conference in Cape Verde, which took place from 7 to 9 October.

The event brought together coaches from all 54 CAF member associations, footballing legends and other stakeholders to discuss ways of advancing the development of the game across the continent.

Two Egyptian clubs will compete in the CAF Champions League. Zamalek will face Rwandan side APR, while Pyramids FC will play Al-Merrikh Bentiu in the round of 32.

Al Ahly and ZED will represent Egypt in the CAF Confederation Cup.

Al Ahly have been drawn against Uganda’s Kitara, while ZED will meet Tanzanian club Azam United in the round of 32.