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Nigerian Trios Rangers, Rivers United, and Shooting Stars Set for CAF Draws in August

Posted : 23 June 2026

Nigeria Premier Football League champions Rangers International will lead the nation's continental charge as the draws for the 2026/2027 CAF inter-club preliminary rounds take place in August. The Flying Antelopes will be joined on the continental stage by league runners-up Rivers United and third-placed finishers Shooting Stars. The final slot will be filled by the winner of the ongoing President Federation Cup competition.

The Confederation of African Football has scheduled the first and second preliminary round draws for the opening week of August. However; the football governing body is yet to officially confirm the precise date and venue for the ceremony. Rangers International will compete in the prestigious CAF Champions League; while Rivers United and Shooting Stars are scheduled to battle in the CAF Confederation Cup.

The definitive list of participating clubs across the continent remains unconfirmed because several domestic leagues and cup tournaments are still active. The final volume of registered teams will heavily influence the preliminary round structure; it will also dictate which highly-ranked clubs receive automatic byes. To ensure smooth logistics; the football body has also extended the official club licensing registration deadline until July 25.

Nigerian representatives are eagerly targeting favorable regional pairings to boost their prospects of progressing deep into the competition phases. Rivers United management has already announced an ambitious offseason recruitment drive to sign ten top talents from across the continent to bolster their squad. Domestic teams have historically struggled with consistency on the continent; this early preparation window offers a vital opportunity to structure competitive squads.

The official match calendar shows that the initial phase of the preliminary rounds will commence between September 4 and September 13. Successful teams will then navigate the second preliminary knockout stage in mid-October to secure a spot in the lucrative group stages. Nigerian football enthusiasts are hoping these three iconic clubs can restore the nation's fading club football reputation on the African continent.

 

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