By Amaechi Agbo
Egyptian giants, Zamalek has threatened to withdraw from the CAF Champions League in protest against an expansion proposal that could grant their arch-rivals, Al Ahly, a spot in the competition.
The dispute stems from a formal request made by the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) asking to expand the tournament’s format.
EFA President Hany Abo Rida requested that CAF increase the number of participating teams and award Egypt three qualification slots instead of two.
Under current rules, league champions Zamalek and runners-up Pyramids FC secured Egypt’s two available places. Al Ahly finished outside the top two, meaning they would miss out on the tournament under the standard criteria.
Zamalek firmly opposed changing tournament rules mid-cycle, stating that qualification must be determined strictly by sporting merit rather than boardroom adjustments.
CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe addressed the developing situation, noting that the governing body is reviewing the league expansion proposal. However, CAF has reportedly leaned toward rejecting the EFA’s request to preserve the competitive integrity of the tournament’s existing framework
The 2026/27 CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup will kick-off with the First Preliminary Round on 4-6 September 2026 (first leg), followed by the return legs from 11-13 September 2026. The Second Preliminary Round is scheduled for 16-18 October 2026, with the decisive return fixtures taking place between 23-25 October 2026.
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