CAF Champions League Draw Throws Sundowns, Mazembe and Esperance Into Early Tests

The road to the 2026/27 CAF Champions League group stage is already producing heavyweight matchups. With the first preliminary round complete, the competition is moving towards a second round that will put several of Africa’s most recognisable clubs under immediate pressure.

Big names face early resistance

SuperSport reports that defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns will meet Angola’s Wiliete Sport Clube de Benguela in the second preliminary round. TP Mazembe have been drawn against Club Africain, while Espérance will face Al-Swehly.

Those fixtures give the next stage a strong competitive edge. Sundowns enter with the added attention that comes with being champions, while Mazembe and Espérance carry the expectations attached to two of the continent’s most experienced clubs.

October brings the next test

The second preliminary round is scheduled for October after the conclusion of the opening phase. That timing leaves the clubs with a short window to settle their squads, manage travel demands and build momentum before the ties begin.

Why the preliminary round matters

At this level, the early rounds are not a formality. They are where ambitious clubs can announce themselves and established sides can discover that continental football offers no easy passage. A strong first leg, disciplined away performance or single moment of quality can shape an entire campaign.

The next stage will therefore be watched well beyond the clubs involved. It is the first serious indication of who is ready to challenge for Africa’s premier club prize.

Source: SuperSport Football. This article is an original rewrite based on the publisher’s current CAF Champions League coverage.