The 2025-2026 CAF Champions League group stage begins on Friday, November 21, with several high-profile matchups on the schedule. Defending champions Pyramids FC face Rivers United, while Al Ahly take on JS Kabylie in pursuit of a record 13th title. Teams like Espérance, Mamelodi Sundowns, and RS Berkane enter with strong ambitions.
The CAF Champions League 2025-2026 season gets underway this weekend, marking the start of the group stage battles in Africa's premier club competition. The opening matchday features blockbuster clashes, including Pyramids FC's title defense against Rivers United and Al Ahly's quest for a record 13th crown against JS Kabylie. Other contenders, such as Espérance, Mamelodi Sundowns, and RS Berkane, are set to compete with high expectations.
The group stage draw took place in Johannesburg, South Africa, on November 3, 2025, with former Cameroon midfielder Alexandre Song in attendance. This sets the stage for unpredictable and fiercely contested matches across the continent.
Four tacticians are highlighted as key figures to watch. Moïn Chaâbani of RS Berkane brings experience from winning the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup, emphasizing tactical discipline and defensive solidity. Krunoslav Jurčić leads Pyramids FC after securing their first continental title, relying on adaptability to neutralize top opponents. Miguel Cardoso at Mamelodi Sundowns, fresh from a runners-up finish last season, aims to reclaim the crown won by the club in 2016. Rulani Mokwena, now with MC Alger—who top the Algerian league—showcases player development and a winning mentality from his successful stint at Sundowns.
These coaches' strategies will be crucial as clubs vie for progression in the tournament.