Rulani Mokwena set to face Sundowns as South African clubs learn CAF fate

The 2025/26 CAF club competition draws have set the stage for a thrilling season of African football, with three South African teams discovering their group-stage opponents in both the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup. 

Following the draw on Monday, the headline story is the mouthwatering reunion between Rulani Mokwena and his former side Mamelodi Sundowns, after Mokwena’s MC Alger were drawn in the same Champions League group as the reigning South African champions.

Sundowns will lead Group C, which also includes Al Hilal SC of Sudan and FC St Eloi Lupopo from the Democratic Republic of Congo. 

The fixture between Sundowns and MC Alger is set to be one of the most talked-about ties in this year’s competition, with Mokwena returning to face the club where he achieved remarkable domestic and continental success before his move to Morocco over a year ago. 

Both teams are known for their tactical discipline, fluid attacking play, and high-tempo pressing — ingredients that promise a tactical chess match when they meet. Sundowns, who have consistently been among the favourites for the Champions League title in recent seasons, will be aiming to reassert their dominance on the continent. 

With a strong squad built on experience and depth, the Brazilians will look to advance comfortably to the knockout stages while managing the emotional backdrop of facing their former coach.

In the CAF Confederation Cup, South Africa’s representation continues through Kaizer Chiefs and Stellenbosch FC, both drawn into challenging groups. Chiefs will battle African heavyweights Zamalek SC, Al Masry, and Zesco United FC in Group D — a line-up packed with continental pedigree and high-stakes fixtures. 

For Stellenbosch FC, Group C offers a blend of opportunity and challenge, with matches against CR Belouizdad (Algeria), AS Otohô (Congo), and Singida Black Stars (Tanzania).

In the eyes of Stellies, this campaign represents a chance to continue their remarkable rise in African football, while Chiefs will be determined to restore their continental reputation after several seasons of near misses.

With Mamelodi Sundowns, Kaizer Chiefs, and Stellenbosch FC all carrying the South African flag, the 2025–26 CAF season promises drama, tactical battles, and fierce rivalries. And at the heart of it all, Rulani Mokwena’s reunion with Sundowns ensures that the Champions League group stage will have a storyline few could have scripted better.