The journey to African club football glory has entered its final stages. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially announced the dates, venues, and kick-off times for the 2025/26 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup semi-finals.
This season, the stakes are higher than ever, with a record-breaking $48 million prize pool up for grabs—the largest in the history of these prestigious tournaments. The Champions League winner will take home a staggering $6 million, while the Confederation Cup victor will claim a significant $4 million.
The Battle for Champions League Glory
The semi-final fixtures promise intense encounters, featuring a blend of historical powerhouses and regional rivalries.
One of the standout matchups sees Tunisia’s Espérance Sportive de Tunis face South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns. This “North vs South” clash pits two former champions in an enthralling battle for continental supremacy.
On the other hand, Moroccan fans are gearing up for a high-stakes domestic showdown between AS FAR and RS Berkane. This all-Moroccan semi-final guarantees that at least one Moroccan club will secure a spot in the final.
Champions League Semi-Final Schedule (All times GMT)
First Leg:
- AS FAR vs. RS Berkane: Saturday, 11 April (Rabat, 19:00)
- Espérance Tunis vs. Mamelodi Sundowns: Sunday, 12 April (Rades, 19:00)
Second Leg:
- RS Berkane vs. AS FAR: Saturday, 18 April (Berkane, 19:00)
- Mamelodi Sundowns vs. Espérance Tunis: Saturday, 18 April (Pretoria, 13:00)
North African Powerhouses Dominate the Confederation Cup
In the CAF Confederation Cup semi-finals, North African giants reign supreme, with two clubs from Algeria, one from Egypt, and one from Morocco vying for a place in the final.
Defending champions Zamalek SC of Egypt face a tough trip to Algiers to battle CR Belouizdad, while in the other bracket, USM Alger will host Olympique Club de Safi from Morocco in what promises to be a fierce Maghreb derby.
Confederation Cup Semi-Final Schedule (All times GMT)
First Leg:
- CR Belouizdad vs. Zamalek SC: Friday, 10 April (Algiers, 19:00)
- USM Alger vs. OC Safi: Saturday, 11 April (Algiers, 16:00)
Second Leg:
- Zamalek SC vs. CR Belouizdad: Friday, 17 April (Cairo, 16:00)
- OC Safi vs. USM Alger: Sunday, 19 April (Safi, 19:00)
Why This Season is Historic
This season marks a monumental turning point for African football, as the increased prize money is part of a broader initiative by CAF to enhance the quality of the game and secure greater financial stability for clubs across the continent.
For the players, these semi-finals represent more than just matches; they are an opportunity to secure global recognition and share in a record-breaking $48 million prize pool that will forever change the landscape of African club football.
