CAF is set to put the last 26 in the draw. Image: Total Energies shared via X.
(The Post News)– The Confederation of African Football (CAF)’s announcement of the seeded pots for the 2025/26 Total Energies CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup has not only stirred excitement but also controversy.
The group stage draws are set to take place on November 3 in Johannesburg, but as the continent’s top clubs prepare for the spotlight, Pirates find themselves embroiled in an administrative and legal battle that could determine whether they feature at all.
CAF confirmed the official seeding on Friday, placing Al Ahly FC, Mamelodi Sundowns, Espérance Sportive de Tunis, and RS Berkane in Pot 1 of the Champions League. Sixteen clubs will be drawn into four groups of four.
Meanwhile, the CAF Confederation Cup lineup includes Zamalek SC, Wydad AC, USM Alger, and CR Belouizdad in the top pot, but with an asterisk hovering over the proceedings due to Orlando Pirates’ pending appeal.
CAF reportedly told regional media that the club’s disqualification stems from an alleged administrative irregularity, though no official documentation detailing the reason has been made public. Pirates maintain that they met all compliance requirements and have lodged an appeal through CAF’s formal channels.
CAF’s inter-club competition regulations are clear that all participating clubs must adhere to licensing, registration, and financial compliance standards. Any breach, from player eligibility issues to late registration or failure to meet licensing deadlines, can lead to sanctions, including suspension or outright disqualification.
If CAF’s decision is upheld, Pirates could lose ranking points for the 2025/26 season, directly affecting South Africa’s continental coefficient, which determines how many clubs the country can enter in future competitions.
Pirates’ Chances of Participating in Group Stages Remain High
However, if the appeal succeeds, Pirates could be reinstated, possibly requiring CAF to adjust or redraw the group stages after the November 3 event. The consequences extend far beyond the club’s trophy ambitions. Participation in the Champions League brings vital broadcast, sponsorship, and prize-money revenue.
It would also dent South Africa’s profile in continental football. Alongside Mamelodi Sundowns, Pirates has been one of the PSL’s most consistent representatives on the African stage, reaching the Confederation Cup final in 2022 and maintaining a strong CAF ranking over recent years.
CAF has yet to issue an official statement confirming the specifics of the disqualification. The South African Football Association (SAFA) has also remained tight-lipped, reportedly awaiting a formal ruling from CAF’s Appeals Board before commenting.
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