The headquarters of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in Cairo hosted the draw ceremony for the 2026-27 CAF Champions League. The tournament will feature Egyptian representatives Pyramids FC and Zamalek, as clubs begin their journey toward qualifying for the group stage.
Pyramids FC Drawn Against Gor Mahia
The draw placed Pyramids FC against Kenyan side Gor Mahia in the first preliminary round, also known as the Round of 64.
Pyramids' Path to the Round of 32
If Pyramids overcome Gor Mahia, they will face the winner between El Merrikh Bentiu of Sudan and Heegan of Somalia in the second preliminary round.
Why Pyramids Start From the Preliminary Rounds
Pyramids FC will participate in the opening qualifying stage due to their CAF ranking. Only three clubs were exempted from the Round of 64 based on their strong continental ranking over the past five seasons.
Teams Exempted from the First Round
Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa) – holders. Espérance de Tunis (Tunisia). RS Berkane (Morocco).
Zamalek Return to CAF Champions League
Zamalek will return to the CAF Champions League after missing the competition for three seasons.
Al Ahly Miss Tournament for First Time Since 2015
Al Ahly will miss the Champions League for the first time since 2015, after failing to reach the group stage and previously moving to the CAF Confederation Cup.
Pyramids' Recent CAF Champions League Campaign
Pyramids secured their place in the tournament after finishing second in the Egyptian Premier League last season ahead of historic champions Al Ahly. In the previous edition, Pyramids reached the quarter-finals before being eliminated by Moroccan club AS FAR, who finished as runners-up.
CAF Champions League Preliminary Round Dates
CAF has announced the schedule for the preliminary rounds of the 2026-27 season.
First Preliminary Round
First legs: September 4–6, 2026. Second legs: September 11–13, 2026.
Second Preliminary Round
First legs: October 16–18, 2026. Second legs: October 23–25, 2026.
Who will Pyramids FC face in the CAF Champions League?
Pyramids FC will face Gor Mahia of Kenya in the first preliminary round.
Will Zamalek participate in the 2026-27 CAF Champions League?
Yes, Zamalek returns to the competition after a three-season absence.
Why does Pyramids FC play in the preliminary rounds?
Because of its CAF ranking, while only three clubs were exempted from the opening round.
Which clubs were exempted from the first round?
Mamelodi Sundowns, Espérance de Tunis, and RS Berkane.
When will the CAF Champions League qualifiers begin?
The first preliminary round matches will begin in September 2026.
