Durban City FC Embark on Historic CAF Confederation Cup Journey Against Rukinzo

Durban City FC will make history on Sunday, 6 September 2026, when they host Rukinzo FC of Burundi in the first preliminary round of the CAF Confederation Cup. The match, scheduled for 15h00 at the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, represents the club’s maiden appearance in continental competition, a milestone moment for both the team and its supporters.

This opportunity comes after Durban City’s triumph in the Nedbank Cup earlier this year (2025/26 season), which secured their qualification for Africa’s second-tier club tournament. That domestic success has now opened the door to a new chapter, giving the club the chance to showcase its talent beyond South Africa’s borders. For the players, it is a chance to test themselves against unfamiliar opposition and prove that they belong on the continental stage.

Head coach Khalil Ben Youssef has underscored the importance of making a strong start at home. With the second leg set to be played in Burundi, City will be determined to capitalise on their home advantage and the support of their fans. Ben Youssef is no stranger to this competition, having previously served as co-coach of Kaizer Chiefs in the Confederation Cup. That campaign ended in disappointment, as Chiefs failed to progress beyond the group stages — an experience he now hopes to turn into valuable lessons for Durban City’s debut run.

The Moses Mabhida Stadium, a venue synonymous with major sporting occasions, will provide a fitting stage for this historic encounter. Fans are expected to flock to the stadium, creating a vibrant atmosphere as Durban City FC carries the hopes of local supporters into continental football. For those unable to attend, the match will be broadcast live on SABC and SuperSport, ensuring nationwide coverage of this landmark fixture.

Rukinzo FC, however, will arrive with ambitions of their own. The Burundian side has built a reputation for resilience and tactical discipline, qualities that could make them a difficult opponent. Durban City will need to remain focused and disciplined to avoid being caught off guard, especially with the away leg looming as a potential decider.

For Durban City FC, this campaign is about more than just results — it is about establishing themselves as a force in African football. While reaching the group stages would already be a significant achievement, the team’s hunger and determination suggest they are aiming higher. Sunday’s clash is the beginning of a new journey, one filled with pride, passion, and the promise of writing their name into the continent’s footballing story.