The 2025/26 season of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League is set to kick off this Friday, marking the start of one of Africa’s most prestigious football tournaments. This season is particularly significant as it features a record-breaking 62 clubs, demonstrating the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) commitment to increasing participation and fostering competitiveness within the sport.
The Preliminary stage, beginning this week, will see clubs engage in crucial matchups, with most of the first-leg fixtures scheduled between September 19 and 21, followed by the second-leg matches from September 26 to 28. This first phase will be pivotal as teams aim to secure their spot in the Second Preliminary Round, which will take place in mid-October.
In a move to support clubs through these early rounds, CAF has introduced a new financial incentive: teams that are eliminated in the first two preliminary rounds will each receive USD 100,000. This initiative aims to alleviate logistical burdens and encourage clubs from all backgrounds to compete, further enriching the tournament’s landscape.
Among the anticipated matches is the debut of RS Berkane, the defending champions of the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup, who will face Togo’s ASC Kara. Last season’s semi-finalists, Orlando Pirates, will take on Lesotho’s Lioli FC, while Zambia’s Power Dynamos will challenge Ivorian giants Asec Mimosas in what promises to be an exciting series of fixtures.
Fans can look forward to comprehensive coverage of the tournament, with matches broadcast live through CAF’s official partners. Additionally, exclusive behind-the-scenes content and highlight packages will be available on CAF’s Digital platforms, including their Official YouTube channel, CAF TV.
With enhanced financial support, unprecedented levels of participation, and a thrilling match lineup, the 2025/26 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League season is poised to elevate the prestige of African club football and engage fans across the continent. For further updates, visit www.cafonline.com.
