South Africa’s four representatives in CAF inter-club competitions have learned their path for the 2026/27 continental season after CAF confirmed the preliminary-round dates for both the Champions League and Confederation Cup. The new campaign promises plenty of intrigue, with Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs and Durban City all set to fly the South African flag on the continent. Defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns head into the tournament as CAF Champions League holders after ending their lengthy wait for a second continental crown by defeating AS FAR Rabat in last month’s final. The Brazilians will once again be among the favourites and, based on recent seasons, should receive a bye into the second preliminary round. CAF’s calendar indicates that the first preliminary round for both competitions will take place between 4 and 13 September, with the second round scheduled from 16 to 25 October.
The group stage campaign will commence on 27 November and run through 23 January 2027, featuring six matchdays that will determine the clubs advancing to the knockout rounds. The knockout phase will begin with the quarter-finals from 26 February to 7 March 2027, followed by the semi-finals between 9