The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially announced the dates and kick-off times for the quarter-finals of the 2025/26 CAF Champions League, with the two-legged ties set to be played in March 2026.
With the group stage now complete, the competition moves into its most decisive phase. Eight clubs remain in the race for Africa’s biggest club prize, and the road to the semi-finals is now clearly mapped out.
The quarter-final action will begin on March 13, when Mamelodi Sundowns host Stade Malien at 18:00 GMT. Later that same evening, at 22:00 GMT, Morocco’s AS FAR welcomed Pyramids FC in what promises to be a highly competitive encounter.
On March 14 at 22:00 GMT, RS Berkane take on Al Hilal Omdurman, before the headline clash of the round on March 15 at 21:00 GMT, when Espérance Sportive de Tunis face record champions Al Ahly SC.
The return legs are scheduled between March 21 and 22. Pyramids will host AS FAR on March 21 at 16:00 GMT, while Al Ahly welcome Espérance later that evening at 19:00 GMT. The following day, Al Hilal will meet RS Berkane at 16:00 GMT, with Stade Malien hosting Mamelodi Sundowns at the same time.
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Morocco will have strong representation in this round, with both AS FAR and RS Berkane hoping to go far in the competition. Playing the first leg at home could give them an important edge, especially in matchups that are expected to be very close.
The quarter-final between Al Ahly and Espérance de Tunis brings one of African football’s most storied rivalries back to life. Often called the “Clasico of Africa,” this rematch of the 2023-2024 final pits two giants with a combined 16 Champions League titles against each other. The duel will be a fresh tactical battle between new leaders: Al Ahly’s Jess Thorup and Espérance’s Patrice Beaumelle, with the Tunisian side hungry for redemption against the 2024 champions.
Looking ahead, the winners will advance to the semi-finals, scheduled for April 10 and 11 (first legs) and April 17 and 18 (second legs).
The 2025/2026 CAF Champions League final will see a return to the traditional two-legged format, with matches scheduled for May 15 and May 24. After recent editions were decided in a single final, CAF has opted to go back to home-and-away ties. It’s a move widely seen as fairer, giving both finalists the chance to play in front of their own fans.
There is also a major financial boost this season. The winner’s prize has been increased to a record $6 million, thanks to the growing commercial strength and visibility of the competition.
