Former Kaizer Chiefs defender Aden McCarthy is set to experience UEFA Champions League football after his new club, Sabah FK, secured a place in the 2026/27 league phase.
Sabah booked their historic spot in dramatic fashion, defeating Hapoel Be’er Sheva 6-4 on aggregate. McCarthy played his part in the decisive second leg, coming on during extra time as Sabah completed their qualification.
The achievement marks a major milestone for the Azerbaijan-based club, who were founded in 2017 and will now face some of European football’s biggest names.
The league-phase draw has handed Sabah a particularly demanding schedule, with FC Barcelona, Arsenal and Manchester United among their opponents.
McCarthy and his teammates will also come up against Borussia Dortmund, Villarreal, Napoli, Slavia Prague and Viking FK.
Sabah FK’s 2026/27 Champions League Opponents
- FC Barcelona — Spain
- Arsenal — England
- Borussia Dortmund — Germany
- Manchester United — England
- Villarreal — Spain
- Napoli — Italy
- Slavia Prague — Czechia
- Viking FK — Norway
For McCarthy, the Champions League campaign represents a significant opportunity to test himself against some of the best players and clubs in European football.
Sabah may be newcomers to the competition at this stage, but their remarkable qualification run has already written a new chapter in the club’s history.
The big question now is whether McCarthy and Sabah FK can produce a few more surprises when they take on Europe’s elite.
How far do you think Aden McCarthy and Sabah FK can go in the Champions League?
