CAFCL/CC: Rangers, Rivers United, Shooting Stars To Begin Continental Campaign In September

CAFCL/CC: Rangers, Rivers United, Shooting Stars To Begin Continental Campaign In September

 Sampson Adedeji

Nigeria's representatives in the 2026/27 CAF inter-club competitions will begin their continental campaigns in September following the release of the official match calendar by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), BSNSports.com.ng reports.

CAF confirmed that the 2026/27 CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup will kick off with the first preliminary round, with the first-leg matches scheduled for September 4-6, 2026, while the return legs will be played from September 11-13.

The second preliminary round will take place from October 16-18, with the decisive return fixtures scheduled for October 23-25.

The group stage of both competitions is expected to commence at the end of November after the completion of the preliminary rounds.

Nigeria will be represented by Rangers International and Rivers United in the CAF Champions League after securing the country's two slots in the elite continental competition.

In the CAF Confederation Cup, Shooting Stars will be joined by the winner of the 2026 Federation Cup as Nigeria's representatives.

The Nigerian clubs will be aiming to make a strong impression on the continental stage as they seek to progress beyond the preliminary rounds and compete for honours in Africa's premier club competitions.