TotalEnergies CAF Champions League 2026/27 – Second Preliminary Round Fixtures

The 2026/27 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League is beginning to take shape, and South Africa's two biggest clubs have their sights firmly set on continental glory. 🇿🇦🔥 🟡 Mamelodi Sundowns vs Wiliete SC Mamelodi Sundowns enter the competition as defending African champions after winning their second CAF Champions League title last season. CAF confirmed that Sundowns were given a bye into the second preliminary round, where they were originally drawn to face either Wiliete SC or Foresters FC. Wiliete subsequently produced a commanding performance against Foresters, winning their first-round tie and booking their place against the Brazilians. CAF reported a 4-0 first-leg victory, giving the Angolan side a strong platform to progress. That means Sundowns now know their opponent as they begin the defence of their continental crown. 🏆💛 Sundowns will be under pressure to deliver once again, particularly after establishing themselves as one of Africa's leading clubs. ⚫ Orlando Pirates face a continental test Orlando Pirates are also chasing another deep Champions League run. The Buccaneers began their campaign in the first preliminary round against Mauritian debutants La Cure Waves. The first meeting ended 0-0, leaving the tie finely balanced. The official CAF draw stated that Pirates would meet either AS Mangasport or African Stars in the second preliminary round if they progressed. The uploaded fixture graphic now lists African Stars vs Orlando Pirates, setting up another intriguing Southern African encounter. Pirates will need to remain focused because there is little room for error in two-legged continental football. 🌍⚔️ 🔥 Other big clashes The second preliminary-round bracket features several heavyweight clubs, including RS Berkane, Espérance de Tunis, Zamalek, Al Hilal, MC Alger, Young Africans, Simba SC, ASEC Mimosas and TP Mazembe. The winners of the second preliminary-round ties will advance to the CAF Champions League group stage. CAF has scheduled the second-round first legs for 16–18 October, with the return legs set for 23–25 October 2026. With USD 6 million awaiting the eventual champions, the stakes are enormous. 💰🏆 🇿🇦 South Africa's continental challenge For South African football supporters, all eyes will be on Sundowns and Pirates. Sundowns are chasing back-to-back continental titles, while Pirates will be looking to prove that their domestic success can translate into another major African campaign. The road to glory is officially underway. Who will go further — Sundowns or Pirates