CAIRO, Egypt — The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced that the preliminary-round draws for the 2026–27 CAF Champions League and the 2026–27 CAF Confederation Cup will be conducted on Thursday, August 6, at CAF headquarters in Cairo, Egypt.
The draw marks the official beginning of the new African club football season and will determine the opening-round matchups for clubs competing in the continent’s two premier interclub competitions.
Representatives from CAF’s member associations will learn the paths their clubs must navigate in the preliminary rounds as they seek qualification for the group stages. The CAF Champions League features the top domestic league champions and other qualifying clubs from across Africa, while the CAF Confederation Cup brings together leading cup winners and other eligible teams from CAF member associations.
The preliminary-round draw is a crucial stage of the competition, determining not only opponents but also home-and-away fixtures, travel schedules and logistical planning for participating clubs. Teams will immediately begin preparing for challenging cross-border fixtures that often involve long-distance travel, varying climates and demanding playing conditions.
For many clubs, success in the preliminary rounds is essential both competitively and financially. Advancing through the early stages opens the door to greater prize money, increased commercial opportunities, broader television exposure and the chance to compete against Africa’s elite clubs in the later phases of the tournaments.
CAF officials expect strong interest from clubs and supporters across the continent as teams begin their pursuit of continental silverware. The Champions League remains Africa’s most prestigious club competition, while the Confederation Cup offers clubs another opportunity to achieve continental success and secure international recognition.
The draw also provides fans with the first glimpse of potential storylines for the new season, including historic rivalries, first-time continental encounters and long-distance fixtures that showcase the diversity of African football.
Why it matters: The preliminary-round draws officially launch the race for Africa’s two most prestigious club trophies. The matchups determined on August 6 will shape each club’s path through the competition while influencing travel logistics, competitive preparation and financial planning. Success in the early rounds can significantly impact a club’s revenue, continental profile and chances of competing for African football’s highest honors.