CAF expected to confirm Champions League and Confederation Cup draw date

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is expected to confirm this week that the 2026/27 CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup group-stage draw will be held in Cairo on Wednesday, 28 October.

Sources close to the matter have told Soccer Laduma that Egypt’s capital will host the event, although CAF has not yet officially announced either the date or the venue.

The group stages are scheduled to begin on 27 November this year and run until late January 2027. The quarter-finals will start the knockout phase in February, with the final scheduled for May 2027.

Before the group-stage line-up is decided, several clubs must still negotiate the second preliminary round.

South African clubs face decisive ties

Reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns are still involved at that stage of the CAF Champions League, where they are facing Angolan club Wiliete.

The first leg ended goalless in Luanda, leaving the tie evenly poised ahead of the return match in Pretoria on Friday, 23 October.

Orlando Pirates are also competing in Africa’s leading club competition. The Buccaneers hold a 1-0 advantage over Namibian side African Stars after winning the first leg in Gaborone.

The teams will meet again at Orlando Stadium on Friday, with Orlando Pirates seeking to complete the job and secure their progress to the group stage.

Chiefs need to overturn deficit

Kaizer Chiefs face a more difficult task in the Confederation Cup after losing 1-0 away to Zambian side Red Arrows.

Fernando Da Cruz’s team will attempt to overturn the deficit in the second leg at home on Friday.

Durban City are in a stronger position in their tie after claiming a 3-1 first-leg victory against Mauritian club Port Louis. Their return match is scheduled for Sunday, with Durban City holding a two-goal advantage as they bid to reach the next stage.

CAF’s expected announcement regarding the draw will provide clarity on the build-up to the group stage, but the South African clubs must first complete their preliminary-round fixtures.