Early rounds offer little room for error CAF Interclub season

The preliminary stages have often produced some of the Champions League’s biggest surprises, with lesser-known clubs eliminating more established opponents.

Demanding travel schedules, difficult playing conditions and intimidating away atmospheres mean even the continent’s biggest teams are rarely guaranteed straightforward progress.

The first preliminary-round matches will be played over two legs from 4-6 September and 11-13 September 2026.

The winners will advance to the second preliminary round, scheduled for 16-18 October and 23-25 October.

Clubs that successfully negotiate those ties will qualify for the lucrative group stage, which is due to begin in late November and continue into January 2027.

Thursday’s draw will therefore represent the first major step in a long continental campaign, as Africa’s leading clubs begin their pursuit of the trophy currently held by Mamelodi Sundowns.