The draw for the group stage of the 2026-2027 CAF Champions League, held on Wednesday, October 28 in Cairo, revealed several exciting matchups. MC Alger will face Zamalek and Young Africans in Group B, while RS Berkane will take on Simba SC and Orlando Pirates in Group C. Meanwhile, Espérance de Tunis will encounter Petro Atlético and Wiliete SC in Group A.

One notable aspect of this edition is the absence of the defending champions, Mamelodi Sundowns, who were eliminated by Angolan club Wiliete SC in the second preliminary round. This elimination changes the dynamics in a competition where several former winners hope to capitalize on this opportunity. RS Berkane, which reached the semifinals last season, will have to manage trips to Tanzania, South Africa, and Cameroon. The Moroccan club will also clash with Orlando Pirates, coached by Abdeslam Ouaddou, in what promises to be an intriguing duel.

Espérance de Tunis will also need to remain vigilant against their rivals, particularly Petro Atlético and Wiliete, who eliminated the Sundowns. In Group B, MC Alger faces a significant challenge against Zamalek, Young Africans, and Club Africain, which returns to this stage after eliminating TP Mazembe.

In conclusion, MAS Fès will compete in Group D alongside Pyramids FC, Al Hilal Omdurman, and Horoya AC. The top two teams from each group will advance to the quarterfinals, with the group stage set to begin in November.

Group Composition

Group A

Espérance de Tunis (Tunisia)

Petro Atlético (Angola)

FC Nouadhibou (Mauritania)

Wiliete SC (Angola)

Group B

Zamalek SC (Egypt)

Young Africans (Tanzania)

MC Alger (Algeria)

Club Africain (Tunisia)

Group C

RS Berkane (Morocco)

Simba SC (Tanzania)

Orlando Pirates (South Africa)

Colombe Sportive (Cameroon)

Group D

Pyramids FC (Egypt)

Al Hilal Omdurman (Sudan)

Horoya AC (Guinea)

MAS Fès (Morocco)