CAF confirms venues for the upcoming Champions League group stage – November 4 2025

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has thrown the spotlight on some of the continent’s most iconic stadiums and vibrant cities as the venues for the 2025-26 CAF Champions League group stage are now confirmed. This announcement stokes excitement across Africa as fans prepare to witness gripping football action where ambition clashes with legacy, and every goal could rewrite history. The upcoming group phase is set to begin in late November 2025 and promises to bring together a dazzling mix of football powerhouses and spirited underdogs fighting to claim their place in African soccer hierarchy. With stadiums polished and cities buzzing, the stage is truly set for one of the continent’s most anticipated sports events.

CAF’s strategic choice of venues not only reflects the growing infrastructure investments but also highlights regional football hubs that play pivotal roles in shaping the African club football narrative. From the roaring crowds in Morocco and Egypt to the passionate terraces in South Africa and Tanzania, each site captures the heart of soccer culture. This announcement comes at a crucial time when African clubs are increasingly gaining recognition on the global stage, thanks partly to dynamic sponsorship deals that fuel competitiveness and visibility. These sports venues will bear witness to next-level clashes that celebrate African football’s new heroes and legendary giants alike.

As fans look forward to witnessing remarkable goals, breathtaking dribbles, and nail-biting finishes, understanding the logistical and historical significance of these venues enhances the anticipation. With matchdays poised between November 21 and February 15, 2026, stadiums across the continent will resound with the electric atmosphere only football can create. Whether it’s the historic Amahoro Stadium in Rwanda or the colossal arenas in North Africa, the blend of tradition and modern football spectacle will make this Champions League group stage a tournament to remember.

Major Venues Confirmed for CAF Champions League Group Stage: A Closer Look at the Homes of African Football

CAF’s decision to finalize venues for the Champions League group stage means that fans and teams alike can prepare for the thrilling battles ahead in some of Africa’s finest stadiums. This section explores where the drama will unfurl and why these locations matter in the grand tapestry of African club football.

The confirmed venues include storied stadiums known not just for their size but for their passionate atmospheres that elevate football matches into unforgettable events. Amahoro Stadium in Rwanda marks a significant return as it hosts the group stage matches for the first time in seven years. This stadium holds a special place in African football lore and has been a cradle for many unforgettable football moments.

Other key venues spread across the continent feature large-capacity stadiums in nations with strong football traditions, like Morocco, Egypt, South Africa, and Tanzania. These locations not only guarantee the physical infrastructure but also a cultural and fan backdrop that enriches every match. The blend of modern stadium comforts with electric local support guarantees matches full of drama, tension, and raw passion.

• Amahoro Stadium, Rwanda: Hosting high-intensity group-stage clashes with a capacity that ensures fans are close to the action.
• Stadiums in Morocco: Known for their imposing architecture and electrifying fanbases, home to giants such as Wydad and OC Safi.
• Egyptian Venues: Zamalek’s and Al Masry’s home grounds ready to roar with the sound of history and ambition.
• South African Grounds: Kaizer Chiefs and Stellenbosch will enjoy support in venues known for vibrant crowds and tactical chess matches.
• Tanzania’s Sports Venues: Azam FC and Singida Black Stars play at stadiums that are fast becoming hotbeds of African club football.

Venue	Country	Capacity	Significance
Amahoro Stadium	Rwanda	30,000	Return to hosting group stage matches after 7 years; center of East African football
Marrakech Stadium	Morocco	45,000	Home of fierce Moroccan clubs with passionate supporters
Cairo International Stadium	Egypt	75,000	Where history is etched with every goal from powerhouse clubs
Moses Mabhida Stadium	South Africa	54,000	Iconic venue known for its spectacular atmosphere and fan display
Benjamin Mkapa Stadium	Tanzania	60,000	Growing reputation as a hub for competitive African club football

The excitement around these venues aligns with the returning energy to the regional football circuits. Fans traveling from all corners will experience the local culture, the electric chants, and the celebration of African football excellence. These arenas will not only host matches but will act as beacons of unity and sporting pride during this packed schedule of the CAF Champions League.

Scheduling and Player Registration: Behind the Scenes of CAF Champions League Group Stage 2025-26

The CAF Champions League isn’t just about the action on the pitch. As the group stage approaches, timing and registration are crucial to ensuring smooth competition flow. CAF’s 2025-26 calendar highlights a tightly packed schedule, emphasizing peak performance periods and player eligibility windows that every club must respect. This section details those arrangements and explains their relevance to clubs, players, and fans.

Here’s a rundown of the important dates set for the season:

• First Preliminary Round: September 19-21, 2025
• Return Leg of First Round: September 26-28, 2025
• Second Preliminary Round: October 17-19, 2025
• Return Leg of Second Round: October 24-26, 2025
• Group Stage Kickoff: November 21-23, 2025
• Subsequent Group Stage Matchdays: November 28-30, 2025; January 23-25, 2026; January 30 – February 1, 2026; February 6-8, 2026; February 13-15, 2026
• Quarterfinals First Leg: March 13-15, 2026
• Quarterfinals Return Leg: March 20-22, 2026
• Semifinals First Leg: April 10-12, 2026
• Semifinals Return Leg: April 17-19, 2026
• Finals: Scheduled between May 8 and May 24, 2026

Timeline management means clubs must be meticulous in player registration. The registration windows are designed to align with the rounds and to ensure rosters reflect competitive balance and fairness:

• First preliminary round registration: August 1-31, 2025
• Second preliminary round registration: September 1-30, 2025
• Group stage registration: October 1-31, 2025
• Second group stage and knockout registration: January 1-31, 2026

Competition Phase	Dates	Player Registration Window
First Preliminary Round	Sept 19-21, 2025	Aug 1-31, 2025
Second Preliminary Round	Oct 17-26, 2025	Sept 1-30, 2025
Group Stage	Nov 21, 2025 – Feb 15, 2026	Oct 1-31, 2025; Jan 1-31, 2026
Knockout Rounds	Mar – May, 2026	Jan 1-31, 2026

Such rigor ensures the likeliest squads are on the pitch—balancing emerging stars and established veterans in a dance choreographed by CAF’s governing standards. This administrative precision is just as exciting to fans who follow the team lineups, player form, and tactical choices emerging as the group stage draws near.

Powerhouses and Underdogs: The Clubs Shaping the 2025-26 CAF Champions League Group Stage

The African club football landscape for the 2025-26 Champions League group stage is a fascinating puzzle: a blend of giants with continental trophies and ambitious newcomers hungry to rewrite the narrative. This melting pot of talent and passion is what keeps fans on the edge of their seats, game after game.

The 16 teams secured spots in the group stage following a series of flashpoint clashes that were a mix of goals, drama, and unexpected drama.

• North African giants such as Wydad Casablanca and Zamalek SC demonstrated crushing dominance. Wydad’s emphatic 6-1 aggregate win over Asante Kotoko was a showcase of tactical superiority and raw firepower.
• Egypt and Algeria boast multiple qualifiers, including titleholders USM Alger and CR Belouizdad, each with strong histories and plans to extend their legacy.
• South African clubs Kaizer Chiefs and Stellenbosch are bringing flair and tactical ingenuity, ready to cause ripples in the group stage.
• Tanzanian teams Azam FC and Singida Black Stars marked their growing influence with convincing performances and passionate fanbases behind them.
• Emerging teams from Kenya, Mali, Côte d’Ivoire, and Congo like Nairobi United and AS Otoho are turning heads with their spirited runs and potential to upset traditional powerhouses.

Club	Country	How They Qualified	Notable Achievement
Zamalek SC	Egypt	7–0 aggregate win versus Dekedda	Reaffirmed title credentials with a dominant performance
Wydad Casablanca	Morocco	6–1 aggregate win against Asante Kotoko	Demonstrated continental dominance with spectacular attacking football
USM Alger	Algeria	Commanding home wins	2023 champions eager to defend their crown
Kaizer Chiefs	South Africa	3–1 aggregate win over AS Simba	Strong showings backed by passionate support
Azam FC	Tanzania	9–0 aggregate beating KMKM	Record-breaking aggregate victory boosting confidence

These teams represent contrasting football philosophies, resources, and ambitions. The blend ensures matches feature a riveting mix of tactical battles, exhilarating goals, and stories of grit and glory. Keep an eye on the evolving group stage tables and results emerging throughout the competition, giving fans ample reasons to engage and marvel, as reflected on platforms tracking Champions League standings.

Fan Culture and Sponsorship: Driving the Energy of the CAF Champions League 2025-26

Football fever in Africa isn’t just about the players and the clubs — it’s about the astonishing fan culture that transforms stadiums into roaring cauldrons of noise, color, and passion. The 2025-26 Champions League group stage will see unprecedented fan engagement, fueled by brilliant tifos, chants, and a carnival-like atmosphere that elevates every matchday to a festival.

The blend of historic rivalries, regional pride, and continental dreams culminates in spectacular displays of support from fans. South African arenas are famous for their choreographed tifos and tribal drums, while North African stadiums echo with chants steeped in decades of tradition. This palpable atmosphere gives players an adrenaline surge, turning each fixture into a battle of not just skill but soul.

• Massive tifos and banners: Clubs are investing in elaborate fan displays that add visual spectacle beyond the 90 minutes.
• Chants and songs: The marching songs and improvised chants echo stories of community and identity.
• Regional derbies: Fierce matchups between teams sharing geographical and historical ties stir extra fire.
• Fan rituals: Pre-match and halftime rituals connect fans beyond their clubs and countries.
• Digital engagement: Social platforms amplify fan voices globally, making football’s stories universal.

On the business side, sponsorship deals are crucial to sustaining and growing the quality and profile of the tournament. Leading brands invest heavily in African club football, bringing in resources that improve stadium facilities, broadcast reach, and club development programs. This commercial partnership fuels the quality of play and ensures that CAF Champions League remains a coveted prize with intense global viewership.

Sponsorship Impact	Effect on Competition
Improved Broadcast Capabilities	Greater accessibility and higher production quality for matches, driving global fan engagement
Enhanced Stadium Facilities	Better player and fan experiences, contributing to the prestige of the event
Increased Prize Money	Heightened competitiveness as clubs vie for lucrative rewards
Grassroots Development Funding	Strengthening future talent pipelines and raising African football standards

As the tournament unfolds, fans can revel not only in the pulsating football but in the community and cultural tapestry that elevates the sport beyond a game. The magic of African soccer lies as much in the stands as on the pitch, echoing an energy that will be a hallmark of the 2025-26 CAF Champions League.