Overview
- CAF on Monday confirmed the second preliminary round fixtures for the 2026/27 Champions League and Confederation Cup, with first legs scheduled for 16–18 October and return legs for 23–25 October 2026.
- Kaizer Chiefs were drawn against Zambia’s Red Arrows for the Confederation Cup final qualifying round after Chiefs received a bye through the first preliminary round.
- Red Arrows enter the tie on strong form after completing a 4-0 aggregate win over Madagascar’s Elgeco Plus, with Ackim Mumba scoring twice in the second leg.
- Mamelodi Sundowns will face Angola’s Wiliete SC, Orlando Pirates meet Namibia’s African Stars, and Durban City will play Mauritius’ AS Port-Louis after progressing from earlier rounds.
- The October window will force South African clubs to manage fixture congestion, long-distance travel and squad rotation with group-stage qualification offering significant financial and sporting rewards.