African clubs to learn CAF preliminary round opponents this week

The road to continental glory officially begins this week after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) confirmed the date, time and venue for the preliminary round draws of the 2026/27 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League and TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup.

The draws will be held on Thursday, 6 August at CAF headquarters in Cairo, Egypt, where clubs from across Africa will discover their opening-round opponents in the continent’s two biggest club competitions.

CAF Champions League draw date and time confirmed

The TotalEnergies CAF Champions League preliminary round draw will take place at 15:00 Cairo time (12:00 GMT) (14:00 CAT) following the Confederation Cup draw earlier in the day.

Supporters across Africa and beyond will be able to watch the draw live on CAF TV as clubs begin their quest to reach the lucrative group stages and ultimately compete for the continental crown.

Defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns will begin the defence of their title after lifting Africa’s most prestigious club trophy last season.

CAF Confederation Cup draw details announced

The TotalEnergies Confederation Cup preliminary round draw is scheduled to begin at 14:00 Cairo time (11:00 GMT) (13:00 CAT) at the same venue.

The competition has become a platform for ambitious clubs seeking continental success, with reigning champions USM Alger looking to defend the title they won last season.

CAF said the preliminary rounds have consistently produced memorable fixtures, bringing together established African powerhouses and emerging clubs eager to make their mark on the continental stage.

Prize money boosts Champions League and Confederation Cup rewards

CAF has also reaffirmed the financial incentives on offer during the 2026/27 campaign.

The winners of the Champions League will receive US$6 million, while the Confederation Cup champions will earn US$4 million.

In addition, clubs eliminated during the preliminary rounds will each receive a US$100 000 solidarity payment, part of CAF’s continued efforts to support participating teams and strengthen its interclub competitions.

The preliminary round draws mark the first step in another highly anticipated African club football season, with teams across the continent aiming to secure a place in the group stages and eventually challenge for continental honours.