2026-2027 CAF interclub season: schedule set, SOBEMAP and Coton FC focused on their roadmap.

The African Football Confederation (CAF) has revealed the organization of the 2026-2027 season for its interclub competitions. Meeting on June 19th, the Competitions Commission has finalized the complete schedule for the Champions League and the Confederation Cup, thus providing clear visibility for the clubs involved across the continent. The new campaign will kick off in September 2026 with the preliminary rounds, extending into the spring of 2027 for the final phases.

As in previous editions, the initial matches will be played over two legs. The first round is scheduled for early September, followed by the second round in October, which will complete the group stage lineup. Serious matters will begin in November 2026 with the group phase, running until the end of January 2027. Six matchdays will punctuate this crucial stage, decisive for qualification to the knockout phase. Spring 2027 will be dedicated to the elimination matches. The quarter-finals will take place between late February and early March, followed by the semi-finals in April. The grand final is expected to be held between May 9 and May 31, 2027, depending on the different competitions.

Benin represented by SOBEMAP FC and Coton FC

From the Beninese perspective, two clubs will have the responsibility of carrying the national colors on the continental stage. The defending champion, SOBEMAP FC, will discover for the first time the demands of the African Champions League. A historic first for the club, which is preparing to enter a new dimension.

Meanwhile, Coton FC will continue its continental learning with a fifth participation in the CAF interclub competitions, including a second in the Confederation Cup. Building on its recent experience, the club aims to reach a new level.