CAF has confirmed that the 2025/26 Interclub competitions draw will be held in Tanzania, the first time the East African nation will host the prestigious event.
The draw, scheduled for August 9, also introduces major format changes for both the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup.
CAF Champions League 2025/2026
Al Ahly of Egypt and Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa are seeded for the competition and will skip the first preliminary round.
60 clubs will compete in the first round, with 30 winners joining the two exempted sides in the Round of 32.
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Pyramids FC, despite being the defending champions, remain unranked and must begin their title defence from the opening stage.
Pyramids won thier first ever CAF Champions League after a 2-1 win over Mamelodi Sundowns. Photo Credit: X
They’re joined by continental heavyweights like Esperance, Simba SC, Petro Luanda, and RS Berkane, who will also start from Round 1.
CAF Confederation Cup 2025/2026
A total of 58 clubs have been confirmed for the upcoming edition.
Only six teams are exempt from the first preliminary round , Zamalek, Wydad AC, USM Alger, CR Belouizdad, Al Masry, and Stellenbosch FC.
RS Berkane celebrating their CAF Confederation Cup trophy. Photo Credit: X
The other 52 clubs will compete in the first preliminary round. The 26 winners will join the exempted six in the Round of 32.
From Nigeria, Remo Stars and Rivers United will feature in the Champions League, while Abia Warriors and Kwara United make their Confederation Cup debuts.
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CAF’s first player registration window for clubs in the preliminary rounds is currently open.
It began on August 1 and will close on August 31. No extension has been announced.
