The journey to African football’s ultimate prize officially kicks off on Thursday, 6 August 2026, as the Confederation of African Football (CAF) conducts the preliminary round draws live from Cairo, Egypt.
A total of 117 clubs across the continent will learn their opening fixtures—with 61 teams battling in the CAF Champions League and 56 teams competing in the CAF Confederation Cup.
Draw Times & How to Watch
Football supporters can stream the preliminary round draws live worldwide via CAF TV:
- CAF Confederation Cup Draw: 14:00 EAT / 13:00 SAST
- CAF Champions League Draw: 15:00 EAT / 14:00 SAST
- Platform: CAF TV (YouTube / Official Web Stream)
South African Clubs Spotlight: Sundowns Defend Title as Durban City Debuts
South Africa enters the 2026/27 campaign following a landmark season where Mamelodi Sundowns conquered the continent by securing their second CAF Champions League title (defeating AS FAR 2-1 on aggregate).
The 2026/27 continental contingent includes:
CAF Champions League Representatives:
- Mamelodi Sundowns: The defending champions automatically target another deep run after securing spots in the 2026 FIFA Intercontinental Cup and 2029 FIFA Club World Cup.
- Orlando Pirates: The Buccaneers look to erase memories of their dramatic early penalty shoot-out exit to FC Saint-Éloi Lupopo last term.
CAF Confederation Cup Representatives:
- Kaizer Chiefs: Returning to the competition after narrowly missing out on the quarter-finals in a tough Group D alongside Zamalek and Al Masry last season.
- Durban City: Preparing for a historic first-ever appearance in African club competition after earning qualification.
