Orlando Pirates Learn CAF Champions League Group Stage Fate

Orlando Pirates have discovered their opponents for the 2026/27 CAF Champions League group stage following the official draw held in Cairo, Egypt. The Buccaneers are South Africa’s only representatives left in Africa’s premier club competition and now know the challenge that awaits them on the road to continental glory.

The draw placed Pirates in Group C alongside Moroccan outfit RS Berkane, Tanzanian giants Simba SC, and Cameroon’s Colombe Sportive. With all four teams aiming for a place in the knockout stages, the group is expected to produce several highly competitive encounters.

For head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou and his squad, the draw presents a demanding assignment. Pirates will not only face quality opposition but will also have to contend with long-distance travel across the continent throughout the group stage campaign.

RS Berkane are regarded as one of Morocco’s strongest clubs and have established themselves as consistent performers in CAF competitions in recent years. Their experience on the continental stage makes them one of the favourites to challenge for top spot in the group.

Simba SC will provide another stern test for the Buccaneers. The Tanzanian side is now under the guidance of former Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker, who is well acquainted with South African football. Barker’s knowledge of local clubs and players could add an intriguing dimension to the clashes against Pirates.

The Dar es Salaam-based side also boasts a passionate support base and considerable experience in CAF competitions, making away trips to Tanzania among the most difficult assignments for visiting teams.

Meanwhile, Colombe Sportive will be eager to prove themselves against some of Africa’s bigger names. Although they may not enjoy the same profile as some of their group rivals, the Cameroonian side will be determined to upset the odds.

The CAF Champions League group stage gets underway between 27 and 29 November, with the opening round of fixtures set to kick off the race for qualification. Every point will be crucial as teams battle for a place in the quarter-finals.

Matchday two is scheduled for 4 to 6 December, while the third round of fixtures will take place from 18 to 20 December before the competition pauses. Action resumes in January, with matchday four set for 8 to 10 January and matchday five following from 15 to 17 January.

The final round of group-stage fixtures will be played between 22 and 24 January. With only the top two teams advancing to the quarter-finals, Pirates will need to be at their best if they are to navigate a challenging Group C and continue their pursuit of a second CAF Champions League crown.

CAF Champions League Group Stage Draw

Group A

• Espérance de Tunis
• Petro de Luanda
• FC Nouadhibou
• Wiliete SC

Group B

• Zamalek SC
• Young Africans SC
• MC Alger
• Club Africain

Group C

• RS Berkane
• Simba SC
• Orlando Pirates
• Colombe Sportive

Group D

• Pyramids FC
• Al Hilal Omdurman
• Horoya AC
• MAS Fes