For the first time in its history, Tanzania has proudly hosted the draws for the 2025-2026 CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup.
The event took place at the Azam Television Center in Tabata, Dar es Salaam, marking a significant milestone for Tanzanian football.
The Champions League draw, scheduled to commence between September 19th and 21st this year, has set the stage for thrilling matchups.
Yanga SC will face Wiliete Banguela from Angola, Simba SC is slated to take on Gaborone United of Botswana, while Zanzibar’s Mlandege FC will square off against Rwanda’s APR FC.
In the Confederation Cup, Azam FC will compete against El Merikh Bantu from Sudan. Singida Black Stars are drawn to face Rayon Sport of Rwanda, and Zanzibar’s KMKM will go head-to-head with AS Port from Djibouti. These first-leg fixtures are also planned for the period between September 19th and 21st.
The return legs for the Champions League preliminary round will be played between October 26th and 28th, promising intense contests as teams vie for progression.
Speaking to the media immediately after the draw, Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) President Wallace Karia revealed a landmark increase in financial support for participating teams.
This year, each team entering the preliminary stage will receive $10,000, double the amount awarded last season.
“This funding boost is intended to ease the financial burden on teams and enhance competitiveness in what promises to be a highly challenging tournament,” Karia explained.
“Last year, CAF provided $5,000 per team, but this year the amount has been increased to $10,000, reflecting a greater commitment to supporting clubs.”he added
President Karia also expressed pride in Tanzania’s unprecedented role in hosting both draws, a testament to the country’s growing stature in African football.
Yanga SC President Hersi Said acknowledged the fierce competition ahead, emphasizing his club’s early preparations for both the domestic season and continental challenges.
“There are no easy matches in these competitions. Our goal is to reach the group stages of the Champions League by delivering strong performances. We have strengthened our squad with strategic signings aimed at achieving this target,” Said said confidently.
Similarly, Simba SC Board Chairman Salim Abdallah stressed respect for all opponents and confidence in his team’s potential.
“We do not underestimate any team. Our recruitment efforts have been solid, and I believe these additions will bring significant improvements to our squad and boost our chances of success,” Abdallah remarked.
Meanwhile, Dar es Salaam Regional Football Association (DRFA) Chairman Lameck Nyambaya praised all participating teams and highlighted the significance of Tanzania hosting such a major draw.
“Today, Tanzania has made history by hosting this prestigious draw, which was traditionally held in Egypt. This reflects the progress Tanzanian football is making, and I am confident all teams involved will represent their countries well,” Nyambaya concluded.