The stage is set for a whirlwind of African football drama! Sixteen teams have punched their tickets to the Group Stage of the 2025/26 TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup, and the stories are already writing themselves. Expect the unexpected as seasoned giants clash with ambitious underdogs in a battle for continental glory. But here's where it gets controversial... Will the established powerhouses continue their dominance, or will a new era of African clubs rise to the top?
The final qualifying matches delivered a potent mix of goals, shocking upsets, and history-making moments across the continent. Get ready for a mouthwatering draw in Johannesburg on November 3rd, where the fate of these 16 clubs will be decided.
North African Football Flexes Its Muscles (Again!)
The narrative remains consistent: North African teams are a force to be reckoned with. Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca demonstrated their sheer power, dismantling Asante Kotoko with a resounding 5–1 victory at home, securing a dominant 6–1 aggregate win. But is this dominance a sign of superior investment and infrastructure, or simply a cyclical trend in African football? This is something to ponder...
Fellow Moroccan side OC Safi also advanced, marking a significant milestone despite a 2–1 defeat to Stade Tunisien. Their 3–2 aggregate victory propels them into the group stage for the first time, proving that even in defeat, progress can be achieved.
Egypt will be proudly represented by two formidable teams. Zamalek SC cruised through with a massive 7–0 aggregate victory against Dekedda of Somalia, reaffirming their status as serious title contenders. Al Masry, on the other hand, endured a fierce Libyan derby against Al-Ittihad, ultimately prevailing 2–1 on aggregate in a nail-biting encounter.
Algeria continues its strong representation with both USM Alger, the 2023 champions, and CR Belouizdad securing their spots after commanding home victories. This consistent performance underscores Algeria's growing influence in continental football. USM Alger's previous win serves as a constant reminder to all competitors of what is at stake and what they are capable of.
Southern Africa: Strength, Surprises, and a Heartbreak
South Africa joins Morocco with two teams vying for glory in the group stage. Kaizer Chiefs delivered a decisive 3–1 victory over AS Simba of DR Congo, mirroring the aggregate scoreline. Meanwhile, Stellenbosch FC delivered one of the most impressive continental performances in their history, crushing 15 de Agosto 4–1 and advancing by the same margin. This is a huge moment for Stellenbosch, showing that hard work and dedication can lead to unexpected success on the continental stage.
Tanzania is another nation celebrating double representation, thanks to Azam FC's record-breaking 9–0 aggregate triumph over KMKM. Singida Black Stars added to the Tanzanian joy with a spirited comeback, eliminating Flambeau du Centre 3–2 on aggregate. Can Tanzania's increased presence translate into a deeper run in the competition? Only time will tell.
ZESCO United of Zambia displayed their resilience by holding firm in Botswana, completing a 5–4 aggregate win over Jwaneng Galaxy. Royal Leopards of Eswatini were involved in the weekend's most dramatic encounter. They scored a crucial 90+10' equalizer, only to be heartbroken after losing 4–3 on penalties against Maniema Union. This is the kind of drama that makes football so captivating, showcasing the highs and lows of the beautiful game.
East and West Africa: Emerging Footballing Nations
Côte d’Ivoire’s San Pedro continued their impressive campaign with a convincing 3–1 away win against Coton FC in Benin, sealing a 4–1 aggregate triumph. Nairobi United of Kenya wrote a fairytale debut story, edging Etoile du Sahel 7–6 on penalties after a 2–2 aggregate draw. This victory is a testament to their hard work and a source of inspiration for other emerging footballing nations. And this is the part most people miss... Nairobi United's success highlights the potential that exists beyond the traditional powerhouses.
Mali’s Djoliba battled past USFA 2–1 on aggregate, while AS Otoho of Congo progressed with a comfortable 3–0 victory over Ferroviário Maputo. These results complete a balanced 16-team field, drawn from 14 different nations, showcasing the diversity and growing competitiveness of African football.
A Clash of Titans and Rising Stars
The upcoming group stage promises a captivating blend of experience and youthful ambition. Clubs such as Zamalek, Wydad, and USM Alger bring a wealth of continental experience, while teams like Stellenbosch, Nairobi United, and Singida Black Stars represent the next generation of African footballing talent. Will the established giants maintain their dominance, or will the rising stars steal the show? This is the question on everyone's mind.
With five nations – Morocco, South Africa, Algeria, Egypt, and Tanzania – boasting double representation, regional rivalries are guaranteed to intensify. These internal clashes will add another layer of excitement and unpredictability to the competition.
What's Next? Mark Your Calendars!
The CAF Interclub Group Stage Draw will be broadcast live from the SuperSport studios in Johannesburg on November 3, 2025, available on CAF’s digital platforms. The 16 qualified teams will be divided into four groups of four, with matches scheduled to kick off in November. From defending champions to ambitious debutants, the 2025/26 edition of Africa’s second-tier club competition is already shaping up to be an unforgettable chapter in the continent’s footballing history.
The Qualified 16:
- Zamalek (EGY)
- USM Alger (ALG)
- Wydad (MAR)
- CR Belouizdad (ALG)
- Kaizer Chiefs (RSA)
- Stellenbosch (RSA)
- Azam (TAN)
- Singida Black Stars (TAN)
- ZESCO United (ZAM)
- Maniema Union (DRC)
- San Pedro (CIV)
- OC Safi (MAR)
- Nairobi United (KEN)
- AS Otoho (CGO)
- Djoliba (MLI)
- Al Masry (EGY)
Now, over to you! Which team do you think has the best chance of lifting the trophy? Are you rooting for the established giants or the emerging underdogs? And do you believe North African dominance is ultimately good or bad for the overall development of African club football? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
