The Confederation of African Football (CAF) unveils the much-anticipated regulations and format for the upcoming season’s CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup, Africa’s premier club tournaments. This season promises to be filled with exciting matchups and intense competition due to the revamped CAF Club Competition Rules. Brace yourselves for fierce battles on the pitch and the electrifying roar of passionate fans in the stands!

Gear Up for the 2024-2025 CAF Club Competitions!

Get ready for an electrifying season of African football! CAF kicks off the 2024-2025 interclub competitions with updated CAF Club Competition Rules, ensuring a more structured and competitive season. Brace yourselves for fierce battles on the pitch and passionate fan support in the stands!

2024-2025 CAF Champions League & Confederation Cup: Key Dates

The preliminary round for the 2024/25 CAF Club Competitions commences on August 16, 2024, and concludes three days later. Group stages are planned for October–December 2024. Buckle up for the knockout stages and finals of both tournaments, scheduled between March and May 2025, according to CAF.

• Preliminary Round: August 16-18, 2024
• Group Stages: October – December 2024
• Knockout Stages: March – May 2025

CAF Club Competitions: Revamped Format and Participant Update

The number of participating clubs will be determined by CAF’s ranking system. The top 12 member associations will be allowed to enter two clubs each into both the Champions League and the Confederation Cup.

Top 12 Member Associations:

1. Algeria
2. Angola
3. Côte d’Ivoire
4. Egypt
5. Libya
6. Morocco
7. Nigeria
8. DR Congo
9. South Africa
10. Sudan
11. Tunisia
12. Tanzania

Format Changes

Here’s a key update to the CAF Club Competition Rules: The previously planned second preliminary round for the Confederation Cup has been cancelled. This significant shift from the past format means teams eliminated in the second round of the Champions League will no longer be transferred to the Confederation Cup. Teams qualifying for the Confederation Cup’s second preliminary round will now directly enter the group stage.

Player Registration Periods

CAF has communicated the player registration periods for the upcoming season:

• July 1 – July 20, 2024: Registration of players for the first preliminary round
• July 21 – August 31, 2024: Registration of players for the second preliminary round
• September 1 – September 30, 2024: Registration of players for the group stages
• January 1 – January 31, 2025: Registration of seven additional players, including four on the bench

Conclusion

These updated CAF Club Competition Rules aim to enhance the structure and competitiveness of African football. With a clear schedule, strict registration periods, and a revamped format, CAF is ensuring well-prepared clubs and a thrilling season for fans. Buckle up and get ready for an action-packed season of African club football!