Increase in the number of clubs in African competitions: Sorting fact from fiction

The request from the Egyptian Football Federation to the Confederation of African Football (CAF), aimed at increasing the number of clubs competing in the CAF Champions League and the Confederation Cup, has sparked widespread speculation in recent hours.

In an official statement, the Egyptian Federation explained that it had proposed allocating additional spots to national associations based on CAF's ranking. This initiative, they argue, is justified by the progress of African football and the encouraging performances of the continent's teams at the 2026 World Cup.

Specifically, the proposal would allow, for certain countries, three clubs to represent them in the CAF Champions League and three more in the Confederation Cup—provided this measure is approved by Africa's football governing body.

More clubs in the CAF Champions League? A beIN Sports source sets the record straight

Amid this controversy, beIN Sports correspondent Nafea Ben Achour has denied any change to the format of CAF's interclub competitions for the 2026-2027 season.

The Tunisian journalist stated that reports suggesting an increase in the number of participating clubs as early as next season are completely unfounded.

On his official account, he wrote:

"No changes are planned for the format of CAF's interclub competitions for the 2026-2027 season. Everything being circulated on this subject is pure nonsense."

A Massive Blow to Al Ahly! CAF Shuts Down Egypt's Continental Expansion Plan

Mohamed Rek |

Editorfr, ar, en

Mohamed Rek- sports content writer with over 10 years of experience creating football content in Arabic and French for platforms such as Foot Africa and Starafrica, combining accuracy, creativity, and audience engagement.

Related teams and leagues

CAF Champions League

CAF Confederation Cup