The race for the group stage of the 2025/2026 CAF Champions League has delivered its verdict for the majority of participants, promising a thrilling edition.
Fourteen teams secured their places after intense play-offs, marked by comebacks and confirmations from the big names.
The top teams confirm their status
The continent’s giants ensured their presence. The competition’s record holder, Al Ahly, seeking a 13th crown, easily dispatched Aigle Noir (2-0 on aggregate), once again demonstrating their consistency at the top. In South Africa, Mamelodi Sundowns were imperious. The Brazilians outclassed Nigeria’s Remo Stars with a 7-1 aggregate score (including a 2-0 victory in the second leg), thus securing their 11th consecutive qualification. Espérance de Tunis, four-time African champions, also confidently secured their place, dominating Burkinabe debutants Rahimo FC (4-0 on aggregate).
Notable exploits and comebacks
Morocco will count on AS FAR Rabat, methodical and solid, who outclassed Horoya AC (4-1 on aggregate, including a 3-0 comeback in Rabat), confirming their lasting return to the North African elite.
Algeria will be well represented with two clubs: JS Kabylie, who showed authority, beating US Monastir 5-1 on aggregate (including a 2-1 victory in the return leg). MC Alger, meanwhile, returned to form after a long absence, qualifying against Colombe of Cameroon (1-1 on aggregate), thanks to the away goals rule (0-0 in the return leg).
The most resounding feat of this round belongs to Saint Éloi Lupopo. Beaten 3-0 in Soweto by Orlando Pirates, the Congolese side managed to force a penalty shootout, which they won 5-4, snatching a spectacular qualification.
Last Two Tickets Pending
The group stage is almost complete, but two spots remain to be filled. The second preliminary round matches between Pyramids and Ethiopian Insurance on the one hand, and RS Berkane and Al Ahly Tripoli on the other, were postponed as Pyramids and Berkane played in the CAF Super Cup.
Clubs Qualified for the CAF Champions League Group Stage
Al Ahly (Egypt)
Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa)
ES Tunis (Tunisia)
AS FAR Rabat (Morocco)
MC Alger (Algeria)
JS Kabylie (Algeria)
Petro de Luanda (Angola)
Simba SC (Tanzania)
Stade Malien (Mali)
Al-Hilal Omdurman (Sudan)
Power Dynamos (Zambia)
St. Éloi Lupopo (DR Congo)
Young Africans (Tanzania)
Rivers United (Nigeria)
Pyramids FC or Ethiopian Insurance
RS Berkane or Al Ahly Tripoli
