Mamelodi Sundowns FC will begin their CAF Champions League title defense in the Second Preliminary Round after receiving a bye. The 2026/27 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League season officially starts this weekend with the First Preliminary Round, a stage the South African champions will skip.
Sundowns finished the 2025 Premier Soccer League season in second place, just one point behind Orlando Pirates. They amassed 68 points from 30 games with a record of 20 wins, 8 draws, and only 2 losses. Their strong campaign saw them score 57 goals while conceding 21, giving them a +36 goal difference. You can review the full final table on our standings page.
When does the CAF Champions League start?
The continental competition begins with first-leg matches from September 4 to 6. The return legs for this initial stage are scheduled for September 11 to 13. A total of 61 clubs have entered this season's tournament. The first round features several high-profile matchups, including TP Mazembe against Medeama SC, Zamalek versus AS Port of Djibouti, and a clash between Orlando Pirates and La Cure Waves.
Other notable ties include Pyramids FC against Gor Mahia, Simba SC facing Mighty Wanderers, and Young Africans SC taking on Gaborone United. The 16 successful clubs from the Champions League preliminary rounds will advance to the group stage.
When will Mamelodi Sundowns enter the competition?
As the defending champions, Mamelodi Sundowns have been granted a direct entry into the Second Preliminary Round. They are joined by Tunisia's Espérance Sportive de Tunis and Morocco's RS Berkane, who also received byes. The second round's first legs are set for October 16 to 18, with the decisive return matches following from October 23 to 25.
This gives Sundowns additional preparation time as they aim to retain their continental crown. The club's recent form, reflected in a LWDWW sequence to close the domestic season, will be a foundation for their upcoming campaign. Fans can track the team's schedule on our dedicated fixtures page.
What financial support is available for clubs?
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced continued financial support for clubs competing in the early stages. CAF will provide every club eliminated during the Preliminary Rounds with USD 100,000 in financial support to assist with travel and other logistical costs, continuing its commitment to strengthening clubs and easing the financial demands associated with competing across the continent, the governing body said.
This initiative is designed to help ease the significant burden of cross-continent travel for clubs that do not progress. It ensures all participating teams receive some compensation for their efforts in Africa's premier club competition.
What is the context for Sundowns' season?
Mamelodi Sundowns head into the new continental campaign after a fiercely contested domestic season. Finishing as runners-up with 68 points sets a high standard. Their defensive solidity, conceding only 21 goals in 30 league games, will be a key asset in the Champions League. Detailed player contributions from that season are available in our stats section.
The team's goal difference of +36 highlights their attacking prowess and defensive discipline. With the new PSL season not yet underway, focus shifts entirely to continental success. Sundowns' first competitive action in the 2026/27 CAF Champions League will be in the second round in mid-October.
